Pondondetta Rainbowfish (Popondetta conniae) — 2,5-3,5cm

Overview

Popondetta Rainbowfish (Popondetta conniae), also known as Connie's Rainbowfish, is a lively, brilliantly colored small rainbowfish that thrives in a peaceful shoal and adds constant movement to a planted community aquarium. Endemic to northern Papua New Guinea, especially the Popondetta/Oro Province region, this species is prized for its vivid blue eyes, subtle iridescence, and peaceful nature. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this charming nano rainbowfish is ideal for the planted aquarium enthusiast.

Appearance

The Popondetta Rainbowfish typically reaches around 3.5 cm in total length, making it one of the smaller rainbowfish species. The body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a pale silver or golden base color that shows subtle iridescent highlights under good lighting. The most striking feature is the vivid blue eyes, which give the species a jewel-like appearance. The fins are semi-transparent and may show hints of yellow or orange in well-conditioned males. Females are generally more subdued in color. Healthy specimens have bright, clear eyes and smooth, undamaged fins.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Popondetta conniae is endemic to northern Papua New Guinea, especially the Popondetta/Oro Province region, where it inhabits clear, moderately flowing streams and rivers. These waters are typically warm, well-oxygenated, and moderately hard, with sandy or gravelly substrates and plenty of aquatic vegetation providing cover. The surrounding landscape is forested, providing shade and contributing organic matter to the water. The fish spend much of their time near the surface, feeding on small insects and zooplankton.

Aquarium Setup

A small, well-planted aquarium of at least 40 litres is recommended for a shoal of Popondetta Rainbowfish. Use a fine, dark substrate and incorporate plenty of live plants such as Java moss, Java fern, Cryptocoryne species, and floating plants to provide cover and subdued lighting. Ensure good filtration and gentle to moderate water movement to maintain high oxygen levels. A secure lid is essential, as active rainbowfish can jump when startled or during courtship displays.

Feeding

The Popondetta Rainbowfish is an omnivore and thrives on a varied diet. Offer small live and frozen foods such as daphnia, baby brine shrimp, cyclops, and micro-worms daily, supplemented with high-quality fine micropellets or flake food. Feed twice daily in small amounts to maintain excellent water quality. A varied, protein-rich diet will enhance coloration and support breeding condition.

Behaviour

This rainbowfish is lively, active, and social, constantly on the move and best kept in a shoal of at least six individuals. When kept in proper numbers, the Popondetta Rainbowfish is peaceful and confident, displaying natural schooling behavior and engaging in playful interactions. Males can display and spar, especially during breeding, but serious aggression is rare. They occupy the middle and upper levels of the aquarium and are most active during the day.

Tank Mates

The Popondetta Rainbowfish is suitable for a peaceful community aquarium with other small fish. Good tankmates include other peaceful small rainbowfish, small peaceful rasboras, small tetras, Corydoras catfish, and Otocinclus. Avoid large predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species, very boisterous tankmates, and large barbs.

Breeding

Breeding the Popondetta Rainbowfish is achievable with careful preparation. This is an egg-scattering species that lays small adhesive eggs among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Condition adults with rich live and frozen foods, and provide clean, stable water. Adults may eat eggs, so a separate breeding setup improves success. Fry are tiny and require infusoria or other very small live foods initially, graduating to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering stunning nano rainbowfish like the Popondetta Rainbowfish direct to your door. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and dispatched with expert care to ensure it arrives in peak condition. With decades of experience, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer support, we make it easy to add peaceful, colorful species to your collection. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.