Bedotia Geayi
Bedotia Geayi is an inhabitant of Madagascar. Fast flowing mountain waters are inhabited by it. It is a nice fish that lives in harmony in a community. It prefers living in a group of six or more than that. In other cases, this fish is not at all demanding. This is an active fish which prefers to inhabit the upper and middle areas of an aquarium. Its social behavior is non-aggressive thus; it gels easily with other fish of the aquarium. If you are interested in knowing more about Bedotia Geayi, go through the following account.
Common name: Madagascan Rainbow
Scientific name: Bedotia Geayi
Designation: Tropical
Family: Bedotiidae
Geographical distribution: Madagascar
Habitat
Bedotia Geayi inhabits mountain streams in Madagascar.
Range
The Mananjary River in south-eastern Madagascar is the most currently known place of origin of Bedotia Geayi. Here it occurs in the upper and middle reaches of the most important river channel. Bedotia Geayi also occurs in the associated tributaries of this river at the height of 300 to 600 meters above sea-level.
Size: Around 10 cm (4 in).
Water preferences
Not critical, but medium hard water is preferred. Temperature required is around 25 degree C or 77 degree F.
Diet
Bedotia Geayi is basically an omnivorous fish, thus, it happily accepts all kinds of foods; especially when it is in the middle regions of the tank or at the surface.
Breeding
Bedotia Geayi spawns among fine-leaved vegetation. The eggs take about take 10 days to hatch, though some temperature-dependent variation can occur.
Description
Bedotia Geayi registers its name amongst the most attractive small fish. It commonly inhabits the waterways of Madagascar. Its body has yellowish color and has a distinctively dark line running along the flanks. It ends at the tail’s base with a dark splotch. You can distinguish the sexes by observing the chins. Male’s chin develops a striking red spot during the season of breeding. The dorsal fin and anal fin of the male have grey color with red margins and the color of the tail fin is grey with black margins. On the contrary, female has translucent fins but its tail fin becomes yellow to the base.
It will be interesting to note that Bedotia madagascariensis, a relative of this species is sold in the aquarium trade by the name of Bedotia Geayi but the coloration of the fins of the former differs from the latter.
Tank Set Up
It should be kept in a tank which measures at least 80 cms. There should be ample space for swimming freely. For the well-being of Bedotia Geayi; well oxygenated water and proper filtration are important factors. The water should be low in infusoria and water changes are needed frequently. Take care that the sides of the tank are densely planted. Bedotia Geayi likes bright lightening. Companions suggested for Bedotia Geayi are Melanotaenia, Danios, Glossolepus and Corydoras.
Life span of Bedotia Geayi is of five years. It needs clear and clean water. At times, it is difficult to take care of Bedotia Geayi as this non-violent species is susceptible to water pollution. Thus, it is very necessary to change water of its tank or aquarium regularly and frequently so that it can thrive well and sustain with its vibrant colors.
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