Red Tail Rasbora

 

Red Tail Rasbora Care Guide (Rasbora borapetensis)

 

 

Appearance and Behavior

 

• Coloration: The body is generally silvery-gold or translucent, but its namesake is the striking red or orange spot located at the base of the caudal (tail) fin, often highlighted by a thin black stripe running underneath it.
• Shoaling: They are excellent, fast-moving shoalers who prefer the middle and upper levels of the water column. They are bold when kept in a large group.

 

Tank Requirements and Water Parameters

 

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons is the minimum, but a 36-inch long tank (30 gallons or more) is better suited to accommodate their active and fast-paced swimming style.
• Schooling: Keep them in schools of at least 8–10 individuals. A large group is essential for their security and to encourage their best coloring and active behavior.
• Temperature: Tropical range: 72°–79° F (22°–26° C).
• pH Level: Adaptable to a wide range: 6.0 to 7.5. They are hardy and tolerate both soft and moderately hard water.
• Aquascape: Provide an open swimming area in the center and front of the tank. Plant the sides and back heavily, and use floating plants to offer some shade, which helps bring out their colors. They appreciate a gentle to moderate water flow.
• Caution: They are known to be jumpers, so a secure lid is recommended.

 

Diet and Feeding

 

The Red Tail Rasbora is an unfussy omnivore with a preference for meaty foods.

• Staple Diet: High-quality flake food or small sinking pellets.
• Supplementation: A varied diet with frequent small, meaty offerings is recommended: Brine Shrimp, Daphnia, and Bloodworms (frozen or live).

 

Compatibility

 

• Good Tank Mates: They are highly peaceful and suitable for most community tanks with other active but non-aggressive fish, including other Rasboras, Tetras, Corydoras catfish, and Dwarf Gouramis.
• Avoid: Large, aggressive fish that may prey on them.