Emerald Eye Rasbora

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Native to Southeast Asia (Sumatra, Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo). Populates slow streams, peat bogs, blackwater swamps and lakes, taking refuge among dense aquatic vegetation.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Emerald Eye Rasbora (Brevibora dorsiocellata). Formerly *Rasbora dorsiocellata*, now reclassified in the genus *Brevibora*. Reaches about 4 cm (1.5 inches) in length. Distinctive feature is the pointed dorsal fin bearing a conspicuous ocellus.

Social Behavior: Extremely gregarious and peaceful schooling cyprinid. Must be kept in large schools (minimum 10-15 specimens) so that it maintains cohesion and does not become shy or stressed.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Iridescent silvery background. On the dorsal fin stands out a roundish black spot ("dorsi-ocellata") surrounded by a white halo. The eye reflects light with emerald reflections. Females are noticeably larger and with a prominent abdomen.

Aquarium Setup: Minimum 60 cm (24 inches) aquarium. Appreciates dark bottoms and dense planting along the margins to provide shelter, maintaining ample space for free swimming in the center. Light shielded by floating plants (e.g. Salvinia).

Diet and Feeding: Micropredator in nature. In the aquarium it easily accepts dry food in flakes or microgranules. It is essential to regularly supplement the diet with live or frozen food (Daphnia, Artemia, Bloodworms) to stimulate the colors.

Water Quality: Hardy fish but prefers slightly acidic or neutral waters (pH 5.5-7.5) and soft (GH 1-12). A little tannin in the water will greatly enhance the shine of the scales.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Excellent fish for peaceful community aquariums. Pairs well with other small rasboras, peaceful tetras, small loricariids, Pangio and Colisa or Honey Gourami.

Aquarium Reproduction: Continuous egg scatterer with no parental care. If conditions are good it will lay eggs daily among fine-leaved plants. Parents will devour the eggs if not separated in time.

Risks and Diseases: Resistant to common diseases if the water is kept clean. The primary stress is the lack of a sufficiently large school, which drastically lowers their immune defenses.