Celebes Rainbow (Marosatherina ladigesi )

Celebes Rainbow — A Glittering Gem from Sulawesi

Delicate, iridescent, and utterly captivating, the Celebes Rainbow (Marosatherina ladigesi) is one of the most elegant nano fish in the freshwater hobby. Endemic to the clear, fast-flowing streams of Sulawesi (formerly Celebes), Indonesia, this jewel-like rainbowfish shimmers with a translucent golden-green body, electric blue and yellow fin accents, and a distinctive elongated dorsal fin that gives it an almost ethereal appearance.

A school of Celebes Rainbows catching the light in a well-planted aquarium is a sight that never gets old — living, glittering confetti drifting through crystal-clear water.

Care at a Glance

• Common Name: Celebes Rainbow, Celebes Sailfish
• Scientific Name: Marosatherina ladigesi
• Origin: Sulawesi, Indonesia (clear, fast-flowing streams)
• Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7 cm)
• pH: 7.0 – 8.0 (slightly alkaline preferred)
• Temperature: 20 – 26°C (68 – 79°F)
• Temperament: Peaceful, active schooling fish
• Difficulty: Moderate

Tank & Setup Tips

Celebes Rainbows are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of 8 or more to feel secure and display their best colours and fin extensions. They prefer clean, well-oxygenated water with moderate flow — replicating the clear streams of their native Sulawesi. A tank of 20 gallons or more is ideal.

Aquascape with fine-leaved plants, open swimming space in the mid-to-upper water column, and a dark substrate to make their iridescent colours truly pop. They are sensitive to poor water quality, so consistent water changes and good filtration are essential.

Feeding

Omnivorous and not fussy. Accept high-quality micro pellets, crushed flakes, and small frozen or live foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and micro worms. Their small mouths require appropriately sized food. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Compatible Tank Mates

Best kept with other small, peaceful species that share similar water parameter preferences. Ideal companions include small rasboras, nano tetras, pygmy corydoras, and other rainbowfish. Avoid large or boisterous fish that may stress or outcompete them.

📸 Photos are for reference only. Actual fish may vary slightly in colour and pattern — each one is uniquely beautiful!