Chili Rasbora

The Chili Rasbora (Boraras brigittae) is a freshwater schooling fish valued for its intense red body and dark lateral accents, especially vivid against green mosses and stem plants. Native to Southeast Asia (Borneo), this species is popular in planted community aquariums because it combines visual impact with manageable care requirements. For high-detail nano aquascapes, few species match its color-to-size impact.

Appearance and Coloration

Chili Rasbora is known for clean pattern definition and color response that improves under stable water quality, varied feeding, and proper group size. In mature planted aquariums, the body pattern reads clearly even during fast schooling movement.

Size and Lifespan

• Adult size: 3.5 cm (1.4 inches)
• Typical lifespan: 3-6 years with stable parameters and quality diet
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Ideal Aquarium Setup

This species performs best in a biologically mature aquarium that prioritizes oxygenation and stable chemistry.

• Tank size: 10-15 gallons (38-55 L)
• Temperature: 20-28 C (68-82 F)
• pH: 4.0-7.0
• Aquascape direction: blackwater-style planting, leaf litter accents, and very calm flow
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Behavior and Temperament

Chili Rasbora is a tiny, peaceful nano species that can be shy around larger or fast tank mates. Keep groups of at least 10-15+ individuals so hierarchy and movement are distributed naturally. Good companion options include other nano fish, small shrimp species, and peaceful micro bottom dwellers.

Diet and Feeding

Chili Rasbora is classified here as Micropredator. Build a varied schedule with high-quality staple foods, plus frozen or live options several times per week. A rotating diet supports immunity, activity, and stronger display color.

Breeding Notes

Most cyprinids in this group are egg scatterers. Conditioning with diverse foods and offering fine-leaved plants or spawning media can improve egg survival. If breeding is the goal, move adults after spawning to reduce egg predation.

Why Keep Chili Rasbora in a Planted Aquarium?

Chili Rasbora provides movement, contrast, and schooling structure that helps a layout feel alive without overpowering the design. For aquascaping-focused community tanks, it is a practical and visually rewarding choice.