Fork Tail Blue Eye Rainbow

Forktail Blue-Eye Rainbowfish (Pseudomugil furcatus)

The Forktail Blue-Eye Rainbowfish is a stunning small freshwater fish known for its brilliant blue eyes, bright yellow fins, and distinctive forked tail. Its graceful body and constantly moving fins create a lively display, while mature males develop especially vibrant yellow and black fin markings. When maintained in a healthy group, these energetic fish bring incredible movement and color to planted community aquariums.

Native to clear, flowing freshwater streams of Papua New Guinea, Pseudomugil furcatus thrives in clean, well-oxygenated water with gentle to moderate current. In the aquarium, they appreciate live plants, driftwood, and floating vegetation along with plenty of open swimming space. A tightly fitted lid is recommended because these small rainbowfish can jump.

Forktail Blue-Eye Rainbowfish are highly social and should be kept in groups of at least six, although groups of eight or more are preferred. Keeping multiple males together can produce spectacular displays as they extend their fins and show off to females and rival males. Providing a larger group also helps encourage natural social behavior.

These fish are omnivorous micropredators and should receive appropriately sized foods. High-quality micro pellets and finely crushed flakes can be supplemented with baby brine shrimp, daphnia, Cyclops, and other small frozen or live foods. A varied diet helps maintain vibrant coloration and healthy finnage.

Forktail Blue-Eye Rainbowfish are peaceful and make excellent companions for small Tetras, Rasboras, Corydoras, peaceful Gouramis, other small Rainbowfish, and similarly sized community species. Aggressive or significantly larger fish should be avoided.

Scientific Name: Pseudomugil furcatus
Common Name: Forktail Blue-Eye Rainbowfish, Forktail Rainbowfish
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Omnivore / Micropredator
Adult Size: Approximately 2 Inches
Minimum Tank Size: 20 Gallons
Recommended Group Size: 6 or More (8+ Preferred)
Temperature: 75–82°F
Origin: Papua New Guinea

If you're looking for a small schooling fish with incredible color and activity, the Forktail Blue-Eye Rainbowfish is an outstanding choice. Its glowing blue eyes, brilliant yellow fins, and energetic social displays make it a beautiful addition to planted and peaceful freshwater community aquariums.