The new leaf fish guide introduces a peaceful, plant-friendly species that adapts well to planted community tanks. These fish are popular among aquarists looking for vibrant coloration, low bioload impact, and easygoing behavior.
They are an excellent choice for beginners and experienced keepers who want a lively yet manageable shoaling species. This article outlines care requirements, species profile, behavior, and common questions in a straightforward format.
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Adult Size | Temperament | Care Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Leaf Fish | Paratherina labiosa | 5 cm (2 in) | Peaceful, shoaling | Easy |
| Origin | Sulawesi, Indonesia | Temperature | pH Range | Diet Type |
| Lake Habitat Species | Malili Lakes | 23–27°C (73–81°F) | 7.5–8.5 | Omnivore, small foods |
| Shoal Size | 6+ recommended | Tank Size | Filtration | Live Plants |
| 60+ liters (15+ gal) | Low to moderate flow | Dense planting preferred | Accept flakes and pellets |
Natural History And Origin
New leaf fish hail from the Malili lake system in Sulawesi, where they inhabit shallow, vegetated zones. In the wild, they navigate among plants and detritus, relying on schooling to reduce predator attention. Replicating this habitat in captivity supports natural activity patterns and vibrant coloration.
Water parameters in these lakes are fairly stable, with neutral to slightly alkaline pH and warm temperatures. Understanding their natural background helps hobbyists set up stable conditions that minimize stress and disease risk.
Setting Up The Aquarium
Tank Size And Stocking
A minimum of 60 liters (15 gallons) is recommended for a small group, with additional space for plants and open swimming area. Larger volumes improve water stability and allow for a more impressive shoaling display.
Low to moderate filtration suits their peaceful nature, providing gentle flow while maintaining good water quality. Dense planting with both floating and rooted vegetation offers shelter, grazing surfaces, and natural shade.
Daily Care And Feeding
These fish accept high-quality flakes and pellets, supplemented with occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia. Regular, small meals help maintain optimal condition and support lively behavior.
Monitor feeding response to avoid overfeeding, which can degrade water quality quickly in smaller setups. Consistent feeding times also reinforce natural activity rhythms and improve shoal cohesion.
Behavior And Tankmates
New leaf fish are schooling species that prefer to remain in groups, swimming in coordinated patterns near mid to upper water levels. They are generally non-aggressive and suitable for planted community tanks.
Ideal tankmates include other peaceful, similarly-sized fish that occupy different water zones. Avoid housing them with large or fin-nipping species that could cause stress or physical damage.
Key Takeaways For Successful Keeping
FAQ
Reader questions
How many new leaf fish should I keep together?
Keep at least six individuals in a single group to encourage natural shoaling behavior and reduce stress. Larger schools become more confident and display better coloration.
Can new leaf fish live with planted tanks?
Yes, they are well suited for planted setups, as they do not harm established vegetation and benefit from the shelter and foraging opportunities plants provide.
What water parameters should I maintain?
Aim for temperatures between 23–27°C (73–81°F) and a pH range of 7.5–8.5, along with moderate hardness. Regular testing and gradual adjustments prevent sudden shifts that could stress the fish.
Are new leaf fish prone to any specific diseases?
They are generally hardy but can suffer from common aquarium diseases if water quality is poor. Maintaining clean filters, avoiding overfeeding, and quarantining new additions help reduce health risks.