Forktail/Furcata Rainbowfish

Great choice! The Forktail Rainbowfish, also known as the Furcata Rainbowfish, is one of the most popular nano schooling fish due to its vibrant colors, darting movements, and distinctive forktail.

🐟 Forktail Rainbowfish – Quick Profile

• Scientific Name: Pseudomugil furcatus
• Common Names: Forktail Blue-eye, Furcata Rainbowfish, Forktail Rainbow
• Size: 2–2.5 inches
• Lifespan: 3–5 years
• Temperament: Active, peaceful, social

✨ Appearance:

• Males have a bright yellow forked tail, neon blue eyes, and yellow-tipped fins
• Bodies are translucent silver-blue, especially vibrant under good lighting
• Females are slightly smaller and duller in color but still attractive

✅ Why They're Awesome:

• Perfect for nano or planted tanks
• Non-aggressive, great with shrimp and other peaceful fish
• Very active swimmers that love to school near the top and middle of the tank
• Constant flashing and chasing displays among males

💧 Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (15–20 recommended for groups)
• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Decor: Dense plants, open swim space, floating cover to reduce skittishness

🍽️ Diet:

• Omnivore – loves live/frozen foods (daphnia, baby brine shrimp, micro worms)
• Accepts high-quality micro pellets and crushed flakes

🐣 Breeding:

• Egg scatterers – lay small adhesive eggs in moss or spawning mops
• Males court females with display dances
• Fry are small and need infusoria or powdered fry food at first