AquaSage
Species library

Chili Rasbora

Boraras brigittae

Cyprinidae

FishDifficulty: ●●●○○Data: verified

About

The chili rasbora, or mosquito rasbora, is a minute jewel-like cyprinid endemic to blackwater peat swamp forests in southwestern Borneo. Males display an intense fiery red with a dark lateral stripe, glowing spectacularly against dark substrate and tannin-stained water. Because of its tiny size and preference for soft, acidic conditions it is best kept in dedicated nano or blackwater aquaria with equally small, gentle tankmates.

Care

Keep in shoals of 8+ (ideally 15–20) in a mature, planted nano tank with soft, acidic, warm water and very gentle flow. Only pair with tiny peaceful species.

Diet

Specialised micro-predator; feed only very small live/frozen foods and finely powdered dry foods.

Tankmate compatibility

Gets along with (2)

Possible with care (33)

Avoid (6)

Computed by the AquaSage engine for a spacious reference tank — always check the full verdict for your exact setup in the calculator.

Sources