Southern Blue Eye Rainbow

Southern Blue Eye Rainbow (Pseudomugil signifer) is the most widely distributed Pseudomugil species, native to coastal drainages of eastern Australia. Males display a pale to translucent silver body with vivid yellow to gold fin markings and the characteristic iridescent blue eyes. This species is notable for its tolerance of both freshwater and slightly brackish conditions — a reflection of its coastal Australian origin.

Feeding & Care Tip: Sera Vipan Baby makes an excellent daily staple — crush lightly before feeding. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Native to coastal drainages of eastern Australia from Cape York Peninsula in Queensland to central New South Wales. This species inhabits freshwater streams, estuaries, and coastal lagoons — making it one of the most salinity-tolerant Pseudomugil. In the aquarium it does best in soft to medium, slightly acidic to neutral fresh water.

Keep in groups of at least eight with mixed sexes. Males display fin-fanning courtship behavior similar to other Pseudomugil. Completely peaceful with other small, non-aggressive species. Its tolerance for varied conditions makes it one of the easier Pseudomugil to keep.

Blue-eye rainbowfish are best kept in a densely planted aquarium with fine-leaved plants and gentle filtration — strong currents will exhaust these small fish. They are most spectacular in natural-toned setups with dark substrate where the iridescent fin extensions and vivid eye color catch the light. Keep only with other small, peaceful species. Larger or more boisterous tankmates will outcompete them for food and space.

Care & Ideal Parameters