Strawberry Rasbora

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Described only in 2011, it is endemic to southern peninsular Thailand (Surat Thani province). Populates the clear but densely vegetated waters of limestone swamps, but also flooded plains and rural canals.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Strawberry Rasbora (Boraras naevus). "Naevus" (from Latin "blemish" or "spot") refers to the enormous and distinctive dark spot on the flank, much larger than in the similar B. maculata.

Social Behavior: Forms very large and close-knit schools. Males establish tiny temporary territories (often around a specific leaf) which they defend by flaring their fins and intensifying their colors, without ever injuring each other.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: One of the most striking species. Healthy males are an incredible translucent strawberry-red with a colossal bluish-black spot on the flank, bordered in gold. Females are pastel orange and the lateral spot is noticeably smaller.

Aquarium Setup: 30-40 liters (8-10 gallons) aquarium (for a group of 20 specimens). Appreciates medium soft waters but does not need the extreme pH values of peat bog Boraras. Setup with smooth rocks, Microsorum and abundant surface vegetation.

Diet and Feeding: Totally zooplanktivorous in nature. Requires diets based on microorganisms: excellent forager of Cyclops, Moina, microworms and Artemia nauplii. Reluctantly accepts hyper-fine granular dry food.

Water Quality: Less demanding than B. brigittae or B. merah, but still requires a mature and stable ecosystem. Detests "sterile" pristine waters: a "natural" aquarium with a slight accumulation of biofilm and mulm (fine detritus) is ideal.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Perfect tankmate for Aquascaping aquariums dedicated to Neocaridina, snails and Microdevario. Suitable for cohabitation with Dario dario (Scarlet Badis), although the darios might occasionally prey on the fry.

Aquarium Reproduction: Continuous daily spawning (continuous spawner). Dominant males attract the female under a leaf. Raising the offspring requires old, moss-rich tanks, providing tiny food like paramecia and infusoria.

Risks and Diseases: Relatively robust for its size, but a victim of osmotic shock if introduced abruptly into tanks that have not matured long enough. Thermal stress (water below 20°C / 68°F) causes the immediate collapse of the school.