Kola rainbowfish

📖 Overview

The type locality is located about 11 km upstream from the sea with the main river making a gradual transition from a broad, mangrove-lined tidal stream with brackish conditions to an exceptionally narrow and steep-walled, limestone channel in woodland habitat with pure fresh water. This species was found nearly 100 m beyond the navigable (via small outboard boat) limit of the stream .

🔬 Taxonomy

🐟 Physical Description

Dorsal spines (total): 4 - 6; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12 - 13; Anal spines: 1; Anal soft rays: 18 - 21. Melanotaenia kolaensis is distinguished by the following combination of characters: IV-VI-I,12-13 dorsal-fin rays; I,18-21 anal-fin rays; 13-14 (most frequently13) pectoral-fin rays; 33-34 (rarely 34) scales on lateral line, 14-16 predorsal scales; 17-23 cheek scales; 16-18 total gill rakers on first arch; greatest body depth of adult male 36.2 % SL; colour in life generally light blue to blue-green on back; dark blue midlateral stripe (1-2 scales wide), especially conspicuous on posterior third of body, edged below with prominent white to pale blue stripe that occupies lowermost part of caudal peduncle, extending forward to middle of sides; ventral portion of body greyish-white to pale blue except pair of dark blue, irregular stripes often present above anal fin and large, bright blue patch just behind and below pectoral-fin base; second dorsal, anal and caudal fins with reddish suffusion .: fusiform / normal.

🌀 Behaviour

Behavioural data for Kola rainbowfish is currently being reviewed.

🦐 Diet

🥚 Reproduction

🌍 Habitat & Distribution

Freshwater; brackish; benthopelagic. Tropical

🌿 Ecology

📐 Morphometrics

🛡️ Conservation Assessment

📊 Population Risk & Fisheries

🦠 Common Diseases

The following diseases are known to affect Kola rainbowfish.

🐠 Related Species

🔍 Similar Species

👥 Community & Contribute