Red Neon Blue-eye

The red neon blue-eye comes from the Indonesian part of New Guinea; it entered the hobby first under the name "Pseudomugil sp. Red Neon" and was scientifically described later. When the males' orange-red bodies are combined with bright blue eyes, it is easy to spot in the aquarium despite its small size. It is about 3 cm long. Females are much plainer; the colors reach their most intense during displays between males.

• At least 30 liters for a group of 6–10.
• 25–27°C, soft to moderately hard water around neutral.
• Dense plants, moss and floating plants; weak flow.
• It may jump; use a lid.
• Hybridization: It can hybridize with other Pseudomugil species; breed the species separately for a pure line.

Omnivorous but with a very small mouth. It feeds on micro granules, powdered flakes, newly hatched brine shrimp and cyclops; small live and frozen foods enliven its colors.

Peaceful and active; it swims in the layer near the surface, and males display to each other constantly. It does not harm shrimp.

Good companions: Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp, Boraras and small rasboras, otocinclus, dwarf corydoras.

Avoid: Any fish that can fit it in its mouth, large and fast species, fin nippers.