Red Mini Rasbora

The Red Mini Rasbora is likely referring to the Dwarf Rasbora or Spotted Rasbora (Boraras maculatus). It is one of the brightest and boldest of the Boraras genus, known for its intense red body color and distinct black spotting.

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Dwarf (Red Mini) Rasbora Care Guide (Boraras maculatus)

 

 

Tank Requirements and Water Parameters

 

Like all Boraras species, Dwarf Rasboras thrive in well-established, specialized tanks that mimic their soft, acidic, blackwater swamp habitats.

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons is a safe minimum for stability, though they can live in a smaller, densely planted nano tank (5.5 gallons) if water quality is monitored closely.
• Schooling: They must be kept in large schools of at least 8–10 individuals; a larger group (20+) is even better for showing off their striking color and active behavior.
• Temperature: Warm tropical range: 75°–80° F (24°–27° C).
• pH Level: Prefers soft, acidic water: 5.0 to 6.8. The use of peat filtration, driftwood, and dried leaf litter is strongly recommended to lower the pH and provide beneficial tannins.
• Water Flow: Very gentle filtration is essential, as they are not strong swimmers and prefer still or slow-moving water.

 

Appearance and Behavior

 

• Color: The body is a bright, deep red/ruby color, making them one of the most vividly colored nano fish. They have one or more distinct black spots along their body, which differentiates them from the Chili Rasbora (B. brigittae).
• Behavior: When comfortable, they are active mid-water swimmers and will explore. Males are bolder and display their intense red coloring when sparring with rivals.
• Caution: They are prone to jumping, so a secure lid is recommended, even on small tanks.

 

Diet and Feeding

 

As micro-predators, Dwarf Rasboras only eat tiny prey.

• Staple Diet: High-quality micro-pellets or finely crushed flakes designed for nano fish.
• Supplementation: Live or frozen micro-foods are necessary for their best health and color development (which is carotene-dependent).
  • Baby Brine Shrimp (Newly Hatched)
  • Daphnia (small size)
  • Microworms
  • Cyclops
• Feeding Tip: Because they are easily outcompeted, feed them small amounts 2–3 times a day in an area free of competition.

 

Compatibility

 

• Good Tank Mates: Other ultra-peaceful, very small fish that won’t outcompete them for food. Ideal companions are Pygmy Corydoras, Otocinclus, and other Boraras species (like Least Rasboras). They are safe with adult dwarf shrimp.
• Avoid: Anything larger than 1.5 inches, fast-moving fish (Danios, larger Tetras), and moderately aggressive fish.