Pseudomugil cf. Paskai

Tiny, dazzling, and absolutely extraordinary — Pseudomugil cf. paskai, commonly known as the Red Neon Blue-Eye or Paska's Blue-Eye Rainbowfish, is one of the most spectacular nano fish in the freshwater hobby. With its vivid orange-red body, electric blue eyes, and dramatically elongated, yellow-tipped fins, this diminutive rainbowfish from New Guinea is a living jewel that transforms any planted nano aquarium into a breathtaking display.

Overview

Appearance

Males are extraordinary — displaying a vivid orange-red body, electric blue eyes, and elongated dorsal and anal fins edged in bright yellow. They display and flare their fins constantly when kept in groups, creating a dazzling, ever-moving spectacle. Females are more subdued but still attractive with their translucent bodies and characteristic blue eyes.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 75 – 82°F (24 – 28°C)
• pH: 7.0 – 8.0
• General Hardness (GH): 8 – 20 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a group
• Lighting: Moderate — their colours truly pop under good lighting
• Substrate: Dark substrate enhances their vivid colouration
• Plants & Decor: Dense planting with floating plants and open swimming areas; Java moss and fine-leaved plants are ideal for spawning

Diet & Feeding

• Staple: High-quality micro pellets or nano fish flakes
• Treats: Baby brine shrimp, micro worms, daphnia, and cyclops

Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Compatibility & Tank Mates

Best kept in groups of 8 or more with a higher ratio of females to males. Ideal tank mates include small nano fish (Chili Rasboras, Celestial Pearl Danios), Neocaridina shrimp, and small snails. Avoid larger or boisterous fish.

Breeding

Egg depositors that scatter eggs among fine-leaved plants or moss. Eggs hatch in 10–14 days. Fry are very small — feed infusoria or liquid fry food initially.

Pseudomugil cf. paskai is a nano aquarium superstar — small in size but enormous in visual impact. Add a group to your planted tank and watch them light up every corner with colour and life.