Sarawak Rasbora (Rasbora sarawakensis)

Family: Cyprinidae

Sarawak Rasbora — a Cyprinidae freshwater fish. Reaches 3.4–5 cm; keep at 22–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6.2–7
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
3.4–5 cm
Minimum tank
30 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins

Species overview

Rasbora sarawakensis of the family Cyprinidae is an aquarium-kept Cyprinidae. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins and omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter, it grows to 3.4–5 cm and prefers 22–26 °C water. Other Rasbora species in our database include Rasbora borapetensis, Rasbora caudimaculata, Rasbora einthovenii.

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; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Sarawak Rasbora easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more.

What temperature and water chemistry does Sarawak Rasbora need?

Set the heater to 22–26 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.2–7, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Sarawak Rasbora get, and what tank size?

Expect 3.4–5 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 30 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Sarawak Rasbora eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Sarawak Rasbora live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Sarawak Rasbora come from?

It lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Sarawak Rasbora jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Sarawak Rasbora breed?

Egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.