Strawberry Rasbora — a Cyprinidae from Southeast Asia, peaceful, restless swimmers that use every inch. Reaches 1–1.4 cm; groups of 6 minimum; bigger schools calm them. 25–28 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
25–28 °C
pH
5–6.5
GH hardness
5–12 dGH
Adult length
1–1.4 cm
Minimum tank
25 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful, restless swimmers that use every inch
Origin
Southeast Asia
Species overview
From the waters of Southeast Asia comes Boraras naevus, a member of the family Cyprinidae. A restless micropredator of the surface film, evolved for open, sunlit water. It swims in mid-water. Adults reach 1–1.4 cm. Groups of 6 minimum; bigger schools calm them. Generous swimming room, a big school and clean water cover nearly all of its care. Maintain 25–28 °C at pH 5–6.5. A rewarding species for the aquarist who reads before buying.
Native biotope
Habitat
Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow
Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates well-oxygenated water
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape
Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants
Hardy rooted plants along the margins
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Groups of 6 minimum; bigger schools calm them
Diet
Small surface-oriented omnivore; flakes and tiny live foods
Recommended tankmates
Other danios and small rasboras — Form a fast, peaceful upper-water school