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The Praecox Rainbow, otherwise known as the Dwarf Neon Rainbow or Turquoise Rainbowfish, is a peaceful, schooling fish. Rainbowfish are known for their characteristic large eyes, black or silver band that runs through the middle scale rows, deeply forked mouth, and two dorsal fins.

A planted aquarium with plenty of free-swimming places available will provide a good environment for Melanotaenia praecox. A dark colored gravel substrate may intensify the Praecox Rainbow's colors.

The Praecox Rainbow is an egg layer that spawns over a moss substrate. At a temperature of around 75°F, the fry will hatch after six or seven days. Adults should be removed from the fry after hatching. Fry should be fed small pieces of live foods such as brine shrimp.

Although the Praecox Rainbow has a large mouth, its throat tends to be narrow. With this in mind, foods should not be too large. The Praecox Rainbow should be fed an omnivorous diet of prepared flakes, frozen, and live foods.

Ideal tank mates include: Discus, Angelfish, Guppies, Platies, Mollies, Swordtails, Tetras, Gouramis, Barbs, Danios, Rasboras, Loaches, Plecos and Scavenger Catfish of similar size.