Blue Eye tenellus Rainbow

Description

Blue Eye Tenellus Rainbowfish (Pseudomugil tenellus)

Species Overview

The Blue Eye Tenellus Rainbowfish (Pseudomugil tenellus) is a refined, peaceful nano fish native to northern Australia. First described by ichthyologist Gerald R. Allen in 1958, this species is prized for its slender profile, iridescent blue eyes, and calm social behavior, making it an excellent choice for planted aquariums and community tanks.

Aquarists looking to buy Blue Eye Tenellus will appreciate its subtle beauty, hardiness, and compatibility with other small, peaceful species.

Natural Habitat & Water Preferences

In the wild, Blue Eye Tenellus inhabit slow-moving creeks, floodplain pools, and vegetated river margins with sandy or silty bottoms. These environments are typically calm and plant-dense, which informs their ideal aquarium setup.

Preferred conditions:

• Calm to gentle water flow

• Neutral to slightly alkaline pH

• Soft to moderately hard water

• Heavily planted aquascapes

Their adaptability makes them suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Size, Appearance & Sexual Dimorphism

Adult Blue Eye Tenellus reach 1.25–1.5 inches (30–35 mm) in length. Males develop slightly longer fins and show enhanced coloration during displays, while females remain more subdued.

Key visual traits:

• Slender, semi-translucent body

• Soft silver to pale yellow tones

• Distinctive iridescent blue eyes

Their understated coloration pairs beautifully with lush greenery and natural aquascapes.

Temperament & Community Compatibility

Blue Eye Tenellus are peaceful, schooling fish that should be kept in groups of 6 or more for best behavior and reduced stress. They thrive in community aquariums with other calm, similarly sized species.

Compatible tank mates include:

• Other Pseudomugil species

• Small rasboras

• Peaceful tetras

• Dwarf bottom dwellers

Avoid housing them with aggressive or overly boisterous fish.

Diet & Feeding

In nature, Pseudomugil tenellus feeds on micro-invertebrates, plankton, and insect larvae. In captivity, they readily accept high-quality prepared foods.

Recommended diet:

• Premium micro flakes or crushed flakes

• Fine pellets

• Frozen or live foods (baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops)

A varied, protein-rich diet enhances coloration and supports long-term health.

Breeding Behavior

Blue Eye Tenellus are easy to breed under stable conditions. They are continuous spawners, depositing small adhesive eggs among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops.

Breeding notes:

• Eggs laid daily over time

• Fry are very small and require infusoria or powdered fry food

• Separate rearing tanks improve survival rates

Conservation & Responsible Sourcing

While not currently endangered, Pseudomugil tenellus relies on intact freshwater habitats. Purchasing captive-bred specimens supports sustainability and reduces pressure on wild populations.

Why Choose Blue Eye Tenellus?

If you’re looking to buy Blue Eye Tenellus Rainbowfish, this species offers:

• Peaceful temperament

• Compact size for nano tanks

• Elegant, natural coloration

• Excellent compatibility with planted aquariums

A perfect choice for aquarists who value natural behavior, subtle beauty, and ecological authenticity.