Dwarf Rasbora

The Dwarf Rasbora (Boraras maculatus) is a freshwater schooling fish valued for a tiny ruby-orange body with dark spots that read as clean visual punctuation in planted nanos. Native to Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Sumatra), this species is popular in planted community aquariums because it combines visual impact with manageable care requirements. It is ideal when the goal is subtle movement and fine-scale detail in compact aquascapes.

Appearance and Coloration

Dwarf 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: 2.5 cm (1.0 inches)
• Typical lifespan: 3-5 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 gallons (38 L)
• Temperature: 20-28 C (68-82 F)
• pH: 4.0-6.5
• Aquascape direction: heavy plant cover, floating plants, and low turbulence
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Behavior and Temperament

Dwarf Rasbora is a calm micro-schooling fish that prefers low-stress, heavily planted setups. Keep groups of at least 10+ individuals so hierarchy and movement are distributed naturally. Good companion options include small rasboras, tiny shrimp-compatible species, and non-predatory nano fish.

Diet and Feeding

Dwarf 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 Dwarf Rasbora in a Planted Aquarium?

Dwarf 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.