Giant Scissortail (Rasbora caudimaculata)

Family: Cyprinidae

Giant Scissortail — a Cyprinidae from Southeast Asia, peaceful and energetic; shy only when kept too few. Reaches 7.5–11 cm; shoaling; 8–10+ for constant motion and confidence. 22–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6.5–7
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
7.5–11 cm
Minimum tank
145 L
Water layer
Active throughout the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful and energetic; shy only when kept too few
Origin
Southeast Asia

Species overview

Rasbora caudimaculata is a Cyprinidae from Southeast Asia. In the wild it prefers clear streams and rivers over gravel; in the aquarium it stays peaceful and energetic. Plan on 7.5–11 cm of adult fish at 22–26 °C. Related profiles: Rasbora borapetensis, Rasbora einthovenii, Rasbora dandia.

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
Shoaling; 8–10+ for constant motion and confidence
Diet
Omnivore; accepts everything small enough
Recommended tankmates
  • Corydoras and small loaches — Occupy the bottom without fuss
Avoid keeping with
  • Large predators — Out-swim fate only so long

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Spawns at dawn over fine plants; eggs fall to the bottom

Frequently asked questions

Is Giant Scissortail easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Peaceful and energetic; shy only when kept too few. Shoaling; 8–10+ for constant motion and confidence.

What temperature and water chemistry does Giant Scissortail need?

Hold 22–26 °C and keep it stable — 22.0–26.0 °C typical for the genus. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.

How big does Giant Scissortail get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 7.5–11 cm; it is active throughout the water column. Plan for at least 145 litres.

What does Giant Scissortail eat?

Omnivore; accepts everything small enough. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Giant Scissortail live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful and energetic; shy only when kept too few — pair it with Corydoras and small loaches — Occupy the bottom without fuss and skip Large predators — Out-swim fate only so long.

Where does Giant Scissortail come from?

Comes from Southeast Asia: clear streams and rivers over gravel. Expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Giant Scissortail jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Giant Scissortail breed?

Spawns at dawn over fine plants; eggs fall to the bottom. Males often slimmer and more colourful.