Redfin Dwarf Rasbora
Boraras merah
Description
The Redfin Dwarf Rasbora is a small, vibrant fish that is popular for its striking red-orange coloration on the fins, particularly the tail and dorsal fins, which stand out against its pale, almost translucent body. This tiny fish typically has a slender, streamlined body with a light, golden to pale yellowish body coloration and a distinctive red hue on its fins, making it quite attractive in planted aquariums. The males are more colorful than females, and the bright red coloration on the fins is especially vivid during breeding or when they are in prime health. They are peaceful, social fish that do well in schools and are excellent for small community tanks. Their size and calm nature make them ideal for nano aquariums and for keeping with other small, peaceful fish.
Habitat Origin
Native to the tropical streams and rivers of Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia and Malaysia. They inhabit clear, slow-moving waters with dense vegetation, which provides cover and grazing areas. These fish are typically found in shaded areas with moderate water flow, where they feed on small invertebrates, plant matter, and organic detritus.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: At least 6 individuals, as they are schooling fish and feel more secure in groups.
Favorite Food
Redfin Dwarf Rasboras are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. They can be fed high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They will also graze on algae and small plant matter in the tank. A varied diet, including both protein and plant-based food, is important to maintain their health and vibrant coloration.
Behavior:
These fish are peaceful, active, and social. They thrive in schools of at least 6 individuals, where they can display their natural schooling behavior. They are generally calm and not aggressive, making them ideal for peaceful community tanks. Redfin Dwarf Rasboras are most often found swimming in the middle to upper levels of the tank, where they are active and graceful swimmers. They are a great choice for aquariums with smaller, non-aggressive tankmates.
Special Care:
Redfin Dwarf Rasboras prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, such as plants, driftwood, and rocks. A soft or fine gravel substrate is ideal, as they are small and delicate. Regular water changes and good filtration are essential to maintain clean, stable water conditions. Since these fish are from slightly acidic to neutral waters, it’s important to maintain stable pH and water temperature in the aquarium. They should not be exposed to extreme changes in water conditions, as they are sensitive to fluctuations.
Compatibility with Other Fish:
Yes, Redfin Dwarf Rasboras are compatible with other small, peaceful fish such as other rasboras, tetras, and small shrimp. They are ideal for peaceful community aquariums with other non-aggressive species that share similar water requirements. Due to their small size, they should not be kept with larger, more aggressive fish, as they may become stressed or be preyed upon.
Adult Size
Breeding Setup
A separate breeding tank is recommended for Redfin Dwarf Rasboras to ensure safe and controlled breeding conditions. A 5-gallon tank (19 liters) is adequate for a small group, while a 10-gallon tank (38 liters) is better for multiple pairs. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water, with pH 5.5–7.5, temperature 24–28°C (75–82°F), and hardness 2–10 dGH. Use a gentle sponge filter to avoid strong currents. Substrate should be fine gravel or sand, with live plants like Java moss and floating plants like Water Sprite to provide hiding spots and egg-laying surfaces. Keep moderate lighting and simulate a 12-hour light/dark cycle.
Conditioning for Breeding
To prepare Redfin Dwarf Rasboras for spawning, offer a diverse and high-quality diet that includes flake food or micro pellets, live or frozen options such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms, as well as vegetable matter like finely chopped spinach or peas. Weekly 20–30% water changes support overall health. To trigger spawning, simulate rainy season conditions by conducting a larger water change (~50%) and slightly increasing the water temperature to 28°C.
Spawning Process
Spawning usually occurs early in the morning or when water parameters are optimal. Males will display their vivid red fins and perform courtship behavior to entice the female. A female can lay 10–30 small, sticky eggs, which are scattered across plants or tank surfaces. Immediately after spawning, it’s crucial to remove the adults to prevent egg predation and maximize fry survival.
Fry Care
Eggs hatch within 24–36 hours, depending on water temperature. Initially, fry feed off their yolk sacs. Once free-swimming, they should be fed infusoria or liquid fry food, and as they grow, you can offer baby brine shrimp, microworms, or crushed flakes. To maintain water quality, do daily or every-other-day 10–20% water changes, keep the temperature steady between 24–28°C, and avoid overfeeding to prevent ammonia buildup.
Key Notes
Redfin Dwarf Rasboras reach sexual maturity at 6–12 months. Males are smaller, more colorful, especially on the fins, while females are rounder and paler, particularly when gravid. Avoid sudden changes in pH, temperature, or hardness, and ensure a quiet environment with stable, clean water. Aggressive tank mates should be avoided to reduce stress and support successful breeding outcomes.