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Small schooling fish from Southeast Asia. Espei and harlequin rasbora most popular. Perfect for planted tanks.
Rasboras are a group of small cyprinid fish native to freshwater habitats of South Asia, Southeast Asia, and southern China, encompassing dozens of species. The harlequin rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha) is the most widely kept, recognized by its copper-orange body and bold black triangular patch. Most species remain under 10 cm and are naturally schooling fish that display their finest behavior in groups of ten or more. Their peaceful temperament makes them compatible with virtually all small tropical fish, and they are a staple of the community aquarium. Body colors pop against dark substrates, driftwood, and lush plantings, making rasboras ideal for planted tanks. They feed readily on fine granules, flake food, and small frozen foods such as daphnia. Breeding involves scattering eggs on the undersides of broad plant leaves in soft, acidic water. Taxonomy within this group is actively evolving, with many species recently reclassified into the genus Danio or related genera.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Rasbora lives 3-5 years.
The Rasbora grows to 2-5cm.
The ideal temperature for the Rasbora is 24〜28℃.
Adaptable to slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 5.5–7.5) at 22–28°C, they are among the more forgiving community fish.
Origin
freshwater habitats in South and Southeast Asia, as well as southeast China
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.
Primary sources
"Rasbora" is a general term. Confirmed with representative species. The relevant genera (Trigonostigma/Rasbora/Boraras) contain no species listed on CITES.
Sources: Seriously Fish / CITES Appendices (Checklist)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
2-5cm
Temperature
24〜28℃
Pellets, frozen food
Adapts to 24-28°C and slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 5.5-7.5). For breeding, aim for soft, slightly acidic water.
A schooling fish that looks beautiful in groups of 10 or more. Its colours stand out against dark substrate, driftwood and plants.
Peaceful and compatible with almost all small tropical fish, widely kept as a community-tank staple.
It prefers small foods such as fine granules, flakes and frozen daphnia. Feed small amounts in several portions.
An egg scatterer that spawns on the undersides of plant leaves; breeding becomes possible in soft, slightly acidic water.
Small size — avoid keeping with large fish
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Rasbora is 24〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Rasbora is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Rasbora typically reaches 2-5cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Rasbora feeds on: Pellets, frozen food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Rasbora varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026