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Chili Rasbora
IntermediateBoraras brigittae
One of world's smallest freshwater fish turning deep red. Schooling looks like a ruby jewelry box.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
22〜28℃
Lifespan
2-4 years
Size
1.5-2cm
Diet
Frozen food, Fine pellets
About
The chili rasbora (Boraras brigittae) is an ultra-miniature cyprinid native to the acidic peat swamp forests and blackwater marshes of southern Borneo (Kalimantan), Indonesia. At just 1.5–2 cm, it is one of the world's smallest aquarium fish, yet fully mature males blaze in deep crimson red with a dark lateral stripe and red accent line — an extraordinary color concentration for such a tiny creature. Females are somewhat less vivid, with an orange tinge. In blackwater nano aquariums with tannin-rich, soft acidic water (pH 4.5–6.5), a school of 10 or more chili rasboras creates a display reminiscent of scattered rubies. Tannin additives such as catappa leaves deepen and intensify their red coloration. Their peaceful nature and tiny size make them ideal companions for dwarf shrimp (cherry shrimp, neocaridina varieties) in nano biotope setups. Diet must consist of micro-sized foods: powdered fry food, baby brine shrimp nauplii, and fine daphnia. Breeding on fine-leaved plants in acidic water is achievable.
Lifespan of the Chili Rasbora
The Chili Rasbora lives 2-4 years.
Size of the Chili Rasbora
The Chili Rasbora grows to 1.5-2cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Chili Rasbora
The ideal temperature for the Chili Rasbora is 22〜28℃.
Water temperature of 22–28°C is appropriate.
Basic Info
Origin
peat swamp forests of southern Borneo (Kalimantan), Indonesia
Lifespan
2-4 years
Care Specifications
- pH
- 6.5–7
- Hardness (GH)
- 10 dGH
- Water Temp.
- 22–28℃
PeacefulGroupBreeding: Moderate
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish / CITES Appendices (Checklist)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Chili Rasbora Listings
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