Spotted Pygmy Rasbora (Boraras maculatus) Care Guide:
The Spotted Pygmy Rasbora is a tiny, peaceful, and beautifully patterned nano fish native to the slow-moving, plant-filled blackwater streams of Southeast Asia. Known for its reddish body with distinct dark spots, it thrives in densely planted aquariums with gentle flow and subdued lighting. Due to its small size and shy nature, it should be kept in groups of at least eight to encourage natural schooling behavior and confidence. A minimum 5-gallon tank is suitable for a small group, though 10 gallons or more is ideal for stability. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with temperatures of 74–82°F (23–28°C) and pH 5.5–7.0. Spotted Pygmy Rasboras are micro-predators, feeding on tiny live or frozen foods like daphnia, baby brine shrimp, and micro pellets. Peaceful and delicate, they’re best suited for species-only or gentle nano community tanks.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Boraras maculatus |
| Common Name | Spotted Pygmy Rasbora |
| Origin | Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia) |
| Size | Up to 0.8 inch (2 cm) |
| Tank Size | Minimum 5 gallons (10+ recommended) |
| Temperature | 74–82°F (23–28°C) |
| pH | 5.5–7.0 |
| Water Hardness | 2–10 dGH |
| Diet | Micro-predator – baby brine shrimp, daphnia, micro pellets |
| Temperament | Peaceful, schooling fish |
| Tank Setup | Heavily planted, soft lighting, gentle flow |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Compatibility | Peaceful nano fish and shrimp |
