Red Neon Blue-Eye (Pseudomugil luminatus) – A Complete Care Guide for Nano Aquarium Enthusiasts

Characteristics

The Red Neon Blue-Eye (Pseudomugil luminatus) is a stunning nano fish known for its bright red-orange body and striking neon blue eyes. It is a member of the Pseudomugilidae family, closely related to rainbowfish. This fish is highly sought after due to its small size, peaceful nature, and vibrant colors.

• Scientific Name: Pseudomugil luminatus
• Common Name: Red Neon Blue-Eye, Luminatus Blue-Eye
• Origin: Papua New Guinea
• Behavior: Active, peaceful, and schooling
• Tank Preferences: Prefers a densely planted aquarium with calm water flow
• Water Parameters:
  • pH: 6.0 – 7.5
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
  • Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75°F – 82°F)
• Care Difficulty: Easy to Moderate, best suited for nano tanks with stable water conditions.

Origin and Distribution

The Red Neon Blue-Eye is native to small streams and freshwater habitats in Papua New Guinea. These fish thrive in warm, soft, and slightly acidic waters, surrounded by dense aquatic vegetation.

Colors and Markings

• Bright red-orange body, intensifying with proper lighting and diet.
• Neon blue eyes, creating a dazzling contrast.
• Transparent, elongated fins with a reddish hue, giving them an elegant appearance.
• Males display more vivid colors and extended fin filaments during courtship.

Tankmates and Compatibility

Red Neon Blue-Eyes are peaceful schooling fish, making them perfect for nano community tanks. Suitable tankmates include:

• Small schooling fish (Ember Tetras, Chili Rasboras, Neon Tetras)
• Other Rainbowfish species (Pseudomugil gertrudae, Pseudomugil furcatus)
• Corydoras Catfish (Pygmy Cory, Panda Cory)
• Shrimp and snails (Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp, Nerite Snails)

Avoid keeping them with large, aggressive fish, as they may get outcompeted for food or stressed.

Care Requirements

To keep Red Neon Blue-Eyes healthy and vibrant:

• Tank size: 10 gallons minimum, but 20 gallons or more is ideal for a larger school.
• Schooling fish: Keep them in groups of at least 6-10 for social interaction.
• Densely planted tank with floating plants (Salvinia, Amazon Frogbit) and fine-leaved plants (Java Moss, Rotala, Hornwort) to mimic their natural habitat.
• Gentle water flow to prevent stress.
• Regular water changes (25-30% per week) to maintain clean water conditions.

Diet and Feeding

Red Neon Blue-Eyes are micro predators, requiring a varied diet for optimal health and coloration:

• Live or frozen foods (baby brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae).
• High-quality micro-pellets and flakes (color-enhancing formulas recommended).
• Freeze-dried foods (bloodworms, tubifex, blackworms).
• Occasional vegetable matter (blanched spinach or spirulina flakes).

Feed small portions 2-3 times daily, ensuring they eat within a few minutes.

Gender Differences

• Males: More vibrant colors with longer, more elaborate dorsal and anal fins.
• Females: Slightly smaller with duller colors and shorter fins.

Breeding Red Neon Blue-Eye

Breeding Pseudomugil luminatus is relatively easy, especially in well-maintained planted tanks:

• Set up a breeding tank (5-10 gallons) with soft, slightly acidic water (pH 6.0 – 6.5).
• Males perform elaborate courtship displays, spreading their fins to attract females.
• Spawning occurs near floating plants or spawning mops, where females lay tiny adhesive eggs.
• Remove eggs or use a breeding mop to prevent adults from eating them.
• Eggs hatch in 7-14 days, and fry should be fed infusoria or powdered fry food.

Common Health Issues

Red Neon Blue-Eyes are hardy, but they can suffer from:

• Ich (White Spot Disease) – Treated with aquarium salt and temperature increase.
• Bacterial infections and fin rot – Caused by poor water quality; requires antibiotics.
• Stress-related diseases – Prevented by keeping them in proper school sizes.

To prevent illness, maintain stable water conditions, avoid sudden parameter changes, and provide a balanced diet.

Additional Resources

For more information on nano fish care and breeding, check out:

• Pseudomugil Rainbowfish Care Guide by Adrian Tappin
• Aquarium forums like Fishlore and NanoFishKeepers
• YouTube channels such as Aquarium Co-Op and Mark’s Aquatics

Final Thoughts

The Red Neon Blue-Eye is a stunning, peaceful, and easy-to-care-for nano fish, perfect for both beginners and advanced aquarists. Their vibrant red hues, glowing blue eyes, and playful schooling behavior make them a brilliant addition to planted community aquariums. With proper care, they can live up to 3-5 years.

Would you like recommendations on tank setup, lighting, or breeding techniques? 🐠✨