Rasbora – Red Tailed Rasbora (Rasbora borapetensis) 3-4cm

Red Tailed Rasbora – Peaceful Schoolers That Settle Beautifully in Planted Tanks!

Red Tailed Rasbora bring calm movement and a distinctive tail hue to freshwater aquariums. These slender fish originate from slow-moving waters across Southeast Asia, where they gather in dense vegetation. Keepers observe that Red Tailed Rasbora relax and show their best traits in heavily planted setups with soft water. Groups of these gentle swimmers create a relaxed atmosphere in compatible communities.

Size and Lifespan

Stay compact even at maturity, which suits many tank sizes. They grow steadily and maintain a slim profile throughout life. With stable conditions and good nutrition, these fish often remain active for several years. Regular care supports their long-term well-being.

Ideal Tank Setup

Choose a mature, densely planted aquarium so Red Tailed Rasbora feel secure and display natural behaviour. Gentle filtration keeps water clear without strong currents that unsettle it. To replicate its natural habitat, select dark substrate and background, position floating or tall plants for shade, add spindly driftwood pieces, and include quiet hiding spots among the foliage.

Compatible Tank Mates

Coexist peacefully with other calm species that share similar water preferences. They avoid nipping or chasing tank companions. Suitable tank mates consist of small tetras, peaceful rasboras, corydoras catfish, and dwarf shrimp. Steer away from large or boisterous fish that could stress these quiet swimmers.

Diet and Feeding

Provide Red Tailed Rasbora with a varied diet to keep them in top condition. High-quality micro pellets or flakes work well as the main food source. Supplement regularly with tiny live or frozen items such as daphnia, baby brine shrimp, and microworms. Feed small portions once or twice daily to prevent leftover food from polluting the water.

Breeding and Behaviour of Red Tailed Rasbora

Form loose schools and glide smoothly through the midwater level. They remain peaceful even during active periods. In suitable conditions, adults scatter eggs among fine-leaved plants without parental care. Use a separate breeding tank with dense vegetation, condition pairs on live foods, and separate adults after spawning to protect the fry.

Species Overview

• Species – Rasbora borapetensis
• Common Name – Red Tail Rasbora
• Origin – Southeast Asia on the Malay Peninsula through Singapore, the Greater Sunda Islands of Borneo and Sumatra, and possibly in Thailand and Cambodia as well
• Diet – Omnivore
• pH Range – 6.8 – 7.5
• Temperature – 23°C – 28°C
• Breed Type – Egg Layer
• Current Size – 3–4 cm
• Max Size – Approximately 7 cm
• Tank Size – Minimum 60 L for a small school, larger recommended

FAQs about Red Tailed Rasbora

What size tank is ideal for Tailed Rasbora?
A tank of at least 60 litres works for a small group, though 90 litres or more allows better schooling space.

Can they live with other fish?
Yes, they do well alongside other small, peaceful species that prefer soft, slightly acidic water.

How often should I feed them?
Offer food once or twice daily in tiny amounts they consume quickly to maintain clean water.

Do they need to be in groups?
Keep six or more together so they feel secure and exhibit natural shoaling patterns.

How long do they live?
With attentive care, Tailed Rasbora commonly reach 4–6 years in the aquarium.

Add a Red Tailed Rasbora to Your Aquarium Today!