The Melanotaenia boesemani belongs to the family Melanotaeniidae of Rainbow fishes. It is native to New Guinea in Indonesia. It was discovered in 1954 - 1955 by the Dutchman Boeseman. This is a peaceful, very active schooling fish.

This species of fish is best suited for Dutch-style aquariums due to the contrast of their colors with the green of the plants. Most of the time they swim in the open areas of the aquarium, usually in the middle and upper zones.

• The females are smaller than the males and have less pronounced colors.
• The males can reach lengths of 10-11 cm, while the females measure 8-9 cm.
• The temperature should be maintained at relatively high levels, 27 - 30 °C.

Habitat: Ayamaru Lakes, Indonesia.