Description:

The Duboulayi Rainbowfish (specifically the Snapper Creek or Schnapper Creek variety) is a popular and striking local variant of the Melanotaenia duboulayi, also known as the Crimson-spotted Rainbowfish.

This specific population is highly regarded by aquarists for its unique "blue" or "turquoise" color morph, which distinguishes it from other duboulayi variants.

Key Characteristics: Snapper Creek Variant
The Snapper Creek variety is often marketed as the "Blue Duboulayi" due to its distinct colouration.

Colouration: Unlike the standard olive or green duboulayi, this variant features metallic blue or turquoise scales. These are often accented by gold and green hues along the mid-line and vibrant red fins.

Sexual Dimorphism: Males are significantly more colorful and develop a deeper body as they age. Their fins often show black margins during breeding displays. Females are more silver/translucent with rounded fins.

Size: They typically reach about 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) in an aquarium, though they can occasionally grow slightly larger in ideal conditions.

Habitat & Origin
Location: Snapper Creek is a small creek system in Central Coastal Queensland, Australia. This creek is known for being short and situated close to tidal reaches, which contributes to the fish's natural hardiness.

Environmental Resilience: Because their natural habitat experiences wide temperature fluctuations, they are extremely robust. They can tolerate temperatures ranging from as low as 11°C to over 30°C, making them one of the few rainbowfish that can be kept in unheated indoor tanks in many climates.

Behaviour & Tips
Schooling: They are peaceful but active. You should keep them in a group of at least 6 (ideally more) to see their best colours and natural schooling behaviour.

Tank Setup: They prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of open swimming space in the center. Use a secure lid, as they are known jumpers.

Morning Displays: To see them at their most spectacular, place the tank where it catches a bit of natural morning sunlight; the males will often "flare" and display intense colors during this time.

Aquarium care

• Grows to: 12cm
• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F) — can tolerate lower (down to 15°C)
• pH: 6.5 – 8.0 (Prefers slightly alkaline)
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Minimum 100 Liters (approx. 30 gallons) for a school
• Omnivorous: High-quality flakes, pellets, and frozen foods like brine shrimp

Feeding:

• Omnivore