Description

Overview:
The Highlands Rainbowfish is a rare and elegant species of rainbowfish found in the high-altitude streams of Papua New Guinea. Known for its sleek body shape, subtle golden-bronze base color, and iridescent highlights of blue, green, or yellow, this species is perfect for hobbyists seeking a unique and naturalistic display. With proper care, mature males develop gorgeous reflective tones and engage in peaceful, active schooling.

Origin:
Native to the Papuan Highlands of northeastern Papua New Guinea, Chilatherina campsi is found in cool, clear, and fast-flowing streams surrounded by dense vegetation and rocky substrates. Its specific range and isolated habitat make it quite rare in the aquarium trade.

Feeding:
Omnivorous and easy to feed. Provide a variety of high-quality micro pellets, flakes, and frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Supplement with vegetable-based foods like spirulina flakes to support color and digestion.

Tank Mates:
Very peaceful and social, best kept in schools of 6 or more. Compatible with other peaceful rainbowfish, small barbs, rasboras, danios, Corydoras, and dwarf gouramis. Avoid slow or long-finned fish if keeping in fast-flowing setups.

Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 70–76°F (21–24°C) — cooler than typical rainbowfish

  • pH: 6.5–7.5

  • Soft to moderately hard water

  • Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

  • Enjoys gentle flow, open swimming space, and planted areas

Behavior & Personality:

  • Peaceful midwater swimmer

  • Males display color shifts during courtship or social displays

  • Active and curious—thrives in clean, well-oxygenated tanks

Special Notes:

  • Cooler temperatures preferred—great for unheated indoor setups

  • Rarely seen in stores—highly desirable for rainbowfish collectors

  • Best color development with good lighting and a varied diet

  • Suitable for biotope-style or natural planted tanks

The Highlands Rainbowfish (Chilatherina campsi) is a refined and rare gem in the hobby, perfect for aquarists looking to expand their collection with a less common and cool-water rainbowfish that brings grace, beauty, and serenity to any peaceful freshwater tank.