Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

They exhibit a peaceful but incredibly active and boisterous temperament. They are constantly on the move, which can stress very shy fish. Kept in a proper school, they focus mostly on interacting with each other.

Diet

Omnivore

They are robust omnivores that eat a wide range of foods. High-quality pellets or larger flakes should form the base of their diet. They highly appreciate regular offerings of bloodworms, daphnia, and chopped earthworms.

Sex ratio

Group

Maintaining a balanced ratio of males to females in a group of at least six is ideal. Males are generally slimmer and more intensely colored during breeding conditioning. A larger group diffuses any minor intra-species chasing.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Adults should be fed once or twice a day with nutrient-dense foods. Ensure they consume their meal within a few minutes to prevent spoilage. Fasting them one day a week can aid their digestion.

Bioload

This is a larger rasbora species, so it produces a moderate bioload. Adequate filtration is necessary to handle the waste of an adult school. Regular tank maintenance will ensure the water remains pristine and well-oxygenated.

Flow

Stagnant

They originate from clear, flowing forest streams and appreciate moderate to strong current. A powerhead can provide the necessary flow and oxygenation they desire. Proper flow encourages their natural schooling and swimming behaviors.

Reproduction

Oviparous

Breeding requires a spacious tank with soft, slightly acidic water and dense vegetation. They scatter their eggs among the plants and abandon them immediately. The parents should be removed post-spawning to maximize fry survival.

Compatibility & tankmates

They are active and peaceful, making good companions for medium-sized fish. Loaches, larger tetras, and peaceful cichlids are suitable tank mates. Extremely small tank mates might be outcompeted for food or accidentally eaten.

Tank level

Top/Middle

They are powerful swimmers that occupy the middle to upper levels of the tank. They need plenty of unobstructed horizontal swimming space. Tall background plants can make them feel more secure.