Purple Banded Rainbowfish – Beautiful Purple & Iridescent Australian Rainbowfish
The Purple Banded Rainbowfish (Melanotaenia trifasciata "Purple") is a stunning freshwater rainbowfish admired for its beautiful purple-blue iridescence, elegant body shape, and energetic swimming behaviour.
This attractive colour form of the Australian Banded Rainbowfish can display shimmering violet, blue, and metallic tones, with mature males often developing especially intense coloration during courtship and social displays.
Native to northern Australia, Melanotaenia trifasciata is a peaceful, active schooling fish that thrives in spacious planted aquariums with plenty of open swimming space.
These lively rainbowfish are especially impressive when maintained in groups, where their natural interactions help showcase their brilliant colours and graceful movement.
Hardy, adaptable, and compatible with many similarly sized peaceful community fish, the Purple Banded Rainbowfish is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a colourful and dynamic freshwater display.
Care Guide
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Parameter
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Details
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Scientific Name
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Melanotaenia trifasciata
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Common Name
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Purple Banded Rainbowfish
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Variety
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Purple – trade colour form
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Origin
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Northern Australia
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Adult Size
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Approximately 10–13 cm; some reach 15 cm
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Temperature
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24–28°C
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pH
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6.5–8.0
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Water Hardness
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8–20 dGH
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Minimum Tank Size
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200 L+ recommended for a group
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Minimum Tank Length
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120 cm recommended
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Diet
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Omnivore; flakes, pellets, frozen and live foods
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Temperament
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Peaceful, active
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Care Level
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Easy to Intermediate
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Group Size
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6+; preferably 8–10
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Lifespan
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Approximately 5–8 years
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Swimming Level
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Middle / Upper
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Water Flow
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Moderate
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Aquarium Type
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Planted Aquarium / Community Aquarium
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Special Requirements
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Open swimming space, secure lid, group housing
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