Glowlight Rasbora: Fish Species Profile

Species Overview

The Glowlight Rasbora (Trigonostigma hengeli) is a small, peaceful freshwater fish known for its striking coloration and suitability for community aquariums. Native to Southeast Asia, this species is a great choice for beginner aquarists due to its hardy nature and vibrant appearance.

• Common Names: Glowlight Rasbora, Hengel’s Rasbora
• Scientific Name: Trigonostigma hengeli
• Adult Size: Up to 1.25 inches (3 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 5-7 years

Characteristics

• Family: Cyprinidae
• Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Sumatra, Indonesia)
• Social: Peaceful schooling fish
• Tank Level: Mid to upper water levels
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
• Diet: Omnivore
• Breeding: Egg layer
• Care Level: Easy
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: 5–12 dGH
• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

Origin and Distribution

Glowlight Rasboras are native to slow-moving streams and rivers in Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, Sumatra, and Indonesia. They are often found in blackwater habitats rich in leaf litter, which gives the water a slightly acidic and tea-colored appearance.

Colors and Markings

The Glowlight Rasbora is named for its distinctive orange, glowing stripe that runs horizontally along its body, resembling a neon glow. Its body is semi-transparent with a silvery undertone, and its fins have subtle orange tips, enhancing its beauty under aquarium lighting.

Tankmates

Glowlight Rasboras are peaceful and thrive in community tanks with other small, non-aggressive species. Suitable tankmates include:

• Neon Tetras
• Ember Tetras
• Harlequin Rasboras
• Corydoras Catfish
• Dwarf Gouramis
• Otocinclus

Avoid keeping them with larger, predatory fish that might view them as food.

Habitat and Care

To replicate their natural environment, set up an aquarium with:

• A dark substrate to enhance their coloration
• Plenty of live plants for cover (e.g., Java Fern, Anubias, and Cryptocoryne)
• Driftwood and leaf litter for a blackwater effect
• Soft, slightly acidic water with stable parameters

Ensure moderate filtration and subdued lighting to mimic their natural habitat.

Diet and Feeding

Glowlight Rasboras are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet. Offer them high-quality flake or micro pellet food as their staple diet. Supplement with:

• Live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms
• Finely chopped vegetables like blanched spinach or zucchini

Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Gender Differences

Distinguishing males from females is subtle. Males tend to be slightly slimmer with more vivid coloration, while females are fuller-bodied, especially when ready to spawn.

Breeding

Breeding Glowlight Rasboras in captivity is relatively easy with proper conditions:

• Set up a breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water (pH ~6.5).
• Add fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop for egg deposition.
• Condition breeding pairs with live foods for optimal health.
• After spawning, remove adults to prevent egg predation.

The eggs hatch in 24–48 hours, and fry become free-swimming within a few days. Feed fry infusoria or powdered fry food until they are large enough for brine shrimp nauplii.

Further Research

Interested in similar species? Learn about:

• Harlequin Rasboras
• Neon Tetras
• Ember Tetras

FAQ

How many Glowlight Rasboras should I keep together?
A group of at least 6–8 is recommended, as they are schooling fish and feel more secure in numbers.

Are Glowlight Rasboras easy to care for?
Yes, they are hardy and suitable for beginners with basic knowledge of aquarium care.

What is the difference between Glowlight Rasboras and Harlequin Rasboras?
Glowlight Rasboras are smaller and have a thinner, more vibrant orange stripe compared to the broader, triangular marking of Harlequin Rasboras.

This profile provides all the essential information for keeping and enjoying Glowlight Rasboras in your aquarium.