The Chili Rasbora (Boraras brigittae) is a tiny, vibrant freshwater fish that brings a splash of red to any nano aquarium. Its small size and peaceful nature make it an ideal choice for aquarists looking to create a serene, well-planted setup. This species is perfect for community tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish.
Average Size: Typically grows to about 0.6-0.8 inches (1.5-2 cm), with a maximum size of approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm).
Tank Size: Requires a minimum tank size of 5 gallons, though larger tanks are recommended for groups.
Temperament: Peaceful. Best kept in schools of 6 or more to encourage natural behavior and reduce stress.
Unique Traits: The Chili Rasbora is known for its vibrant red coloration with a distinct black line running along its body. Males tend to be more intensely colored than females, especially during breeding.
Origin: Native to the blackwater streams and peat swamps of South Borneo, Indonesia.
Other Names: Also known as Mosquito Rasbora.
Care Level: Easy to Moderate. The Chili Rasbora is generally hardy but does best in stable, soft, acidic water conditions.
Diet: Omnivorous. They thrive on a diet of high-quality micro-pellets, live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and mosquito larvae. Occasional feeding of finely crushed flake food can also be beneficial.
Characteristics:
Extremely small and delicate, making them ideal for nano tanks.
Prefers heavily planted tanks with subdued lighting and dark substrate to mimic their natural habitat.
Best kept in groups to showcase their schooling behavior and vibrant colors.
Sensitive to water quality; regular maintenance and stable parameters are crucial.
An excellent choice for a peaceful, community aquarium with other small species such as shrimp or other micro-fish.
Water Parameters:
pH: 4.0-7.0
gH: 1-5
kH: 0-2
TDS: 50-150 ppm
Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
Disclaimer: "Please note that these are general guidelines, and for more accurate values, we encourage you to contact Living Aquarium by phone or in person. Within store hours, our team of experts are always happy to answer any questions you may have and provide personalized guidance on care."