Glowlight Rasbora (Trigonopoma pauciperforatum)

Family: Cyprinidae

Glowlight Rasbora — a Cyprinidae from Borneo, calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Reaches 5.2–7.7 cm; small groups recommended. 23–25 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 23–25 °C
pH: 5–6
GH hardness: 5–12 dGH
Adult length: 5.2–7.7 cm
Minimum tank: 71 L
Water layer: Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life
Origin: Borneo

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species native to Borneo: Trigonopoma pauciperforatum lives bottom-dwelling over gravel. Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Adults reach 5.2–7.7 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Trigonopoma species we profile, alongside Trigonopoma gracile.

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: Small groups recommended
Diet: Unfussy omnivore; varied diet keeps condition
Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament
Avoid keeping with: Fin-nippers — Constant stress

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method: Spawns freely; remove parents to save the eggs

Frequently asked questions

Is Glowlight Rasbora easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life. Small groups recommended.

What temperature and water chemistry does Glowlight Rasbora need?

Set the heater to 23–25 °C and avoid swings. pH 5–6, GH 5–12 dGH suit it.

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

Adults reach 5.2–7.7 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 71 litres.

What does Glowlight Rasbora eat?

Unfussy omnivore; varied diet keeps condition. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Glowlight Rasbora live with other fish?

Calm, undemanding and well-suited to community life; small groups recommended. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Compatible size and temperament. Keep away from Fin-nippers — Constant stress.

Where does Glowlight Rasbora come from?

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

Does Glowlight Rasbora jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Glowlight Rasbora breed?

Spawns freely; remove parents to save the eggs. Males often slimmer and more colourful.