Dority’s Rainbowfish
Remarks: Dority’s Rainbowfish males have silver bodies with red zig-zag stripes running horizontally across their body, earning them the nickname “Zig Zag Rainbowfish.” Females are silver or bronze in color and lack the stripes.
These fish are omnivorous and should be fed a quality flake food with supplemental proteins such as baby brine shrimp. They require clean water but tolerate a wide variety of water parameters. By providing frequent water changes, you will be rewarded with nearly continuous spawning attempts.
Glossolepis species deposit eggs in weedy areas (often mimicked by a yarn mop) and the eggs hatch 7-10 days later. Eggs can be harvested for hatching in separate tanks to avoid predation. Most Rainbows show their best colors.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sex | Males: silver with red zig-zag stripes; Females: silver or bronze, no stripes |
| Diet | Omnivorous – flake food with baby brine shrimp |
| Water Conditions | Tolerant of wide range; requires clean water |
| Spawning | Occurs frequently with regular water changes; eggs laid in weedy areas |
| Egg Hatching Time | 7 to 10 days |
FAQ
What is the difference between male and female Dority’s Rainbowfish?
Males have silver bodies with red zig-zag stripes running horizontally. Females are silver or bronze and lack the stripes.
How should I feed my Dority’s Rainbowfish?
Feed a quality flake food supplemented with proteins like baby brine shrimp to meet their omnivorous needs.
Where do the fish lay their eggs?
They deposit eggs in weedy areas, which can be mimicked using a yarn mop. Eggs hatch in 7 to 10 days.


Carol Peters –
The fish are active and colorful, especially when the water is changed regularly. The males show bright red zig-zag patterns. I used a yarn mop to provide hiding spots for the eggs. The spawning cycle is consistent and the fish seem healthy.
Evan Hughes –
Great for a community tank. The females are calm and the males are vibrant. I feed them flakes and a few baby brine shrimp weekly. The colors are best after a water change.
Leah Bell –
Easy to care for and very attractive. I noticed the fish spawning multiple times in a month. The eggs were collected and hatched successfully in a separate tank.