Poa palembangensis

Common name: Palembang Rainbowfish

Origin: Indonesia (native to the Palembang region of Sumatra)

Optimal living conditions:

• Temperature: 24 - 30 °C
• pH: 6.5 - 7.5
• Aquarium size: 80 liters+ (a larger tank is preferable for a school)

Adult fish size: 5 - 7 cm

Diet: Poa palembangensis is an omnivore, feeding on both plant matter and small live or frozen foods. In captivity, they do well on high-quality flakes or pellets formulated for tropical fish. You can supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Adding some vegetable-based food such as spirulina or algae wafers will help keep their diet balanced.

Tankmates: This species is peaceful and should be kept with other small, non-aggressive species in a community aquarium. Ideal tankmates include tetras, small barbs, rasboras, and peaceful livebearers. As with other rainbowfish, they are best kept in groups of 6 or more, as this helps them feel secure and display their most vibrant colors. Avoid housing them with aggressive or larger species that may stress them out or view them as prey.

Note: Poa palembangensis is a lesser-known but stunning species of rainbowfish, known for its vibrant colors, especially the males, which can exhibit beautiful iridescent blue and green hues. These fish are relatively hardy and adapt well to a variety of water conditions, but they thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water with moderate hardness. Like other rainbowfish, they are active swimmers and enjoy open swimming spaces, so they do best in tanks with plenty of room for movement. They also appreciate floating plants and some vegetation to provide cover, but they will also enjoy having clear swimming areas.

Note: This small chart is only the basics and is not enough for you to decide if this fish is right for you! Do your own detailed research before buying!!