The Brilliant Rasbora (Rasbora einthovenii) is a striking and popular freshwater fish species that is known for its vibrant, reddish-orange coloration. It is a member of the Rasbora genus and is commonly kept in community aquariums due to its peaceful nature.
Key Features of the Brilliant Rasbora:
Appearance:
The Brilliant Rasbora has a slender, torpedo-shaped body.
Its most prominent feature is its brilliant orange to red coloration, which gives the fish its name.
It also has a slight iridescent sheen, particularly on its scales, giving it a glowing effect under certain lighting conditions.
The fins can show hues of gold or orange, adding to its appeal.
Size:
The Brilliant Rasbora is a small fish, growing to around 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm) in length when fully grown.
Temperament:
It is a peaceful, non-aggressive fish, making it an excellent choice for community tanks with other non-aggressive species.
Brilliant Rasboras prefer to be kept in schools of at least 6-8 individuals, as they feel safer and more confident when surrounded by their own kind.
Habitat and Water Conditions:
Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand and Malaysia, where it inhabits slow-moving streams and rivers.
Water Parameters:
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5).
Temperature: Prefers warm water in the range of 75–82°F (24–28°C).
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is ideal.
These fish enjoy well-planted aquariums with plenty of hiding spots and places to swim.
Diet:
Brilliant Rasboras are omnivores, feeding on a varied diet that includes high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
They are not particularly fussy and will readily accept most commercially available fish food.
Tank Requirements:
They prefer a well-planted tank with dense vegetation, which provides both hiding spots and surfaces for grazing.
A gentle filtration system and subdued lighting work well, as they thrive in a calm and low-stress environment.
A lid or cover on the aquarium may be helpful, as they can sometimes jump out of the tank.
Care and Maintenance:
The Brilliant Rasbora is generally easy to care for, especially when kept in a well-maintained tank with stable water parameters. Regular water changes (around 20-30% every week) will help maintain good water quality.
They are very active and enjoy swimming in the middle to upper parts of the tank.
The Brilliant Rasbora is a small, vibrant fish that thrives in a well-maintained, peaceful aquarium. Its beautiful colors and easy care make it a favorite among aquarists, particularly those with community tanks. As long as they are kept in groups and provided with a suitable environment, Brilliant Rasboras can live for several years and add a beautiful splash of color to your aquarium.
