Chilatherina alleni “Wapoga” Red Form Rainbowfish

The Wapoga Red Form Rainbowfish is a striking and relatively uncommon rainbowfish originating from the Wapoga River region of West Papua, Indonesia. This selectively bred form of Chilatherina alleni has been developed to emphasize the intense red coloration naturally seen in some individuals. 

Mature males can develop brilliant yellow to golden body coloration with contrasting darker lateral markings, vivid red fins, and a distinctive red forehead or breeding stripe. Their colors become especially intense when displaying to females or competing with other males. Females are generally more subdued but retain the attractive streamlined appearance characteristic of the species.

Care

• Scientific Name: Chilatherina alleni
• Variety: “Wapoga” Red Form
• Common Name: Wapoga Red Form Rainbowfish / Alleni Wapoga Rainbowfish
• Adult Size: Approximately 3–4 inches
• Temperature: 75–82°F
• pH: 6.5–8.0
• Temperament: Peaceful, active and social
• Diet: Omnivore
• Minimum Group: 6+, with larger groups preferred
• Tank Size: 40–55 gallons or larger recommended
• Care Level: Easy to moderate

Wapoga Alleni are highly active schooling fish and appreciate an aquarium with plenty of open swimming space. Plants around the sides and back of the aquarium provide cover while still allowing room for their energetic swimming and displaying behavior.

Feeding

Provide a varied diet of high-quality flakes or appropriately sized pellets supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms.

A varied diet and good water quality help encourage strong growth and the vivid yellow and red coloration for which the Red Form is prized.

Tank Mates

Excellent tank mates include other peaceful rainbowfish, larger Pseudomugil, Corydoras, peaceful plecos, rasboras and similarly sized community fish.

Because they are active and enthusiastic feeders, very timid or slow-moving species may have difficulty competing for food.

Note: Juveniles may show relatively little of the dramatic coloration seen in mature adults. Males typically develop significantly stronger yellow and red coloration as they mature and settle into their aquarium.