Rasbora borapetensis 1-1.5cm

Rasbora borapetensis (1–1.5cm), also called Brilliant Rasbora, is a hardy, shimmering nano fish perfect for peaceful planted tanks and beginner aquarists.

The Rasbora borapetensis, commonly known as the Brilliant Rasbora, is a small, peaceful freshwater fish known for its sleek body and iridescent silver-to-gold shimmer. At 1–1.5cm, these juveniles are still growing but already show their distinctive black midline stripe and vibrant orange or red highlights on the fins. Native to the calm, plant-rich waters of Southeast Asia, particularly around Lake Borapet in Thailand, this species thrives in community aquariums with soft water, low flow, and plenty of swimming space.

This hardy rasbora is ideal for beginner and intermediate aquarists who want a visually striking, active schooling fish that’s easy to care for and compatible with many peaceful tank mates.

🐟 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Rasbora borapetensis

• Common Names: Brilliant Rasbora, Borapet Rasbora

• Size: 1–1.5cm (juvenile; grows up to 4–5cm as adults)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, active

• Difficulty: Easy

• Origin: Thailand, Cambodia, Laos (Southeast Asia)

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more for natural behavior and reduced stress

🌊 Water Conditions

Rasbora borapetensis adapts well to standard community tank conditions but prefers soft, slightly acidic water similar to its natural habitat.

• Temperature: 22–27°C (72–81°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: 2–10 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (more space preferred for larger schools)

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Filtration: Low to moderate flow

• Lighting: Moderate (helps showcase reflective scales)

Add live plants, dark substrate, and driftwood to mimic their native environment and help them feel secure.

🧍‍♂️ Tank Mates

These rasboras are non-aggressive and thrive in community aquariums with similarly peaceful species.

Ideal tank mates include:

• Other small rasboras (e.g., Harlequin, Chili)

• Small tetras (e.g., Neon, Ember, Glowlight)

• Corydoras catfish

• Otocinclus

• Peaceful shrimp (e.g., Cherry, Amano)

• Dwarf gouramis (non-aggressive types)

Avoid:

• Aggressive or territorial species

• Fast, boisterous fish that may outcompete them for food

• Larger fish that could view them as prey

They’re best kept in schools of 6 or more, which brings out their natural shoaling behavior and confidence.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Rasbora borapetensis are micro-predators and omnivores, accepting a variety of foods in captivity.

Recommended diet includes:

• High-quality micro pellets or tropical flake food

• Frozen or live foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms

• Crushed freeze-dried options

• Occasional plant-based supplements (e.g., spirulina flakes)

Feed once or twice daily, offering only what they can eat in 2–3 minutes to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.

🧼 Care and Maintenance

• Perform weekly water changes (20–30%) to maintain clean, stable water

• Use a soft sponge filter or gentle flow setup to mimic natural habitat

• Avoid sudden fluctuations in temperature or pH

• Provide a secure lid—these active fish may jump

• Observe for signs of stress like hiding, faded colors, or erratic swimming

Despite their small size, Brilliant Rasboras are tough and adaptable, especially in well-maintained tanks.

🌿 Why Choose Rasbora borapetensis?

The Brilliant Rasbora is the perfect nano fish for aquarists who appreciate active movement, shimmering colors, and peaceful schooling behavior. Easy to care for and compatible with a wide range of species, they bring harmony and energy to planted and community tanks.

Bring light and life to your aquarium—add Rasbora borapetensis to your tank today!