Hetermorpha Rasbora

The Heteromorpha Rasbora, also known as the Red-Finned Rasbora or Reddish-Finned Rasbora, is a small, peaceful species of fish native to the freshwater rivers and streams of Southeast Asia, including parts of Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. This species is known for its vibrant red fins, slender body, and lively swimming behavior, making it a popular choice for hobbyists seeking colorful and active fish for their community tanks.

🐠 Appearance:

• Size: Typically grows to around 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm) in length, making it an ideal choice for nano aquariums or small community tanks.

• Coloration:

  • The body of the Heteromorpha Rasbora is generally transparent to pale pinkish with a slight reddish hue, giving it an attractive, subtle color.

  • The most distinctive feature is the bright red or orange coloration on the fins, particularly the caudal fin (tail), pectoral fins, and dorsal fin. These vibrant fins create a striking contrast against the body, especially when the fish is in motion.

  • The eyes are relatively large compared to the body, and the fins are delicate and slender, contributing to the fish’s sleek and graceful appearance.

🌿 Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is suitable for a small group of Heteromorpha Rasboras, but a larger tank will offer more stability and space for the fish to swim and form schools.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

  • pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Environment:

  • These fish thrive in planted tanks with lots of dense vegetation, which mimics their natural habitat of slow-moving streams and rivers with overhanging plants and submerged roots.

  • A fine substrate such as sand or small gravel is recommended. Driftwood, rocks, and floating plants provide additional hiding spots and structures for the fish to explore.

  • Moderate water flow is ideal, as it helps create a natural environment while preventing the tank from becoming too stagnant.

🏡 Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: The Heteromorpha Rasbora is a peaceful and active species. It is typically found schooling in groups, which provides a sense of security and makes the tank more visually dynamic.

• Tankmates:

  • These fish are non-aggressive and do well in community tanks with other peaceful species.

  • Suitable tankmates include small tetras, gouramis, dwarf cichlids, shrimp, and other small, peaceful fish.

  • Avoid larger or aggressive species that may see them as prey or stress them out.

  • Keeping them in a school of 6 or more will allow them to display natural behavior and reduce stress.

🍤 Diet:

• Omnivorous: The Heteromorpha Rasbora is an omnivore, and in the wild, it feeds on a combination of small invertebrates, plant matter, and algae.

• In Captivity:

  • These fish accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flake foods, sinking pellets, and micro pellets.

  • Supplementing their diet with live or frozen foods, such as daphnia, brine shrimp, or bloodworms, is beneficial and encourages more natural foraging behavior.

  • They also enjoy grazing on algae and biofilm in the aquarium, which helps keep surfaces clean.