Description
Remarks: The rainbow dace has long been a wrongfully over-looked species in the hobby due to it commonly being seen as a “bait fish.” If one sees this species in the right conditions, though, it would prove to be much more than that with its vibrant red fins and head and pale blue body. This North American native has more than just color as it also has a very active and inquisitive behavior making it very fascinating to observe.
This fish can be found throughout the mid-west in a wide variety of parameters making it very hardy and an excellent candidate for a native pond. It is said that they show their best colors when kept in cooler conditions, though, and require heavy aeration. Some report the rainbow dace to be a fin nipper but this can be alleviated by keeping them in large schools of 8 or more so they are preoccupied with displaying and sparring with one another.
Scientific Name: Cyprinella lutrensis
Common Name: Rainbow Dace
Max Size: 3.5″
pH: 6.5-8.5
Hardness: Moderate
Temperature: 50-80°
Aggressiveness: Peaceful
Region of Origin: North America
