Mosquito Rasbora/ Chili Rasbora

The Chili Rasbora is a tropical freshwater fish that has captured the aquarium community’s attention for quite some time.

These fish are lovely, adorable (they’re so tiny! ), and simple to care for. Because they don’t take a lot of experience to keep, they’re a fairly approachable species!

Regardless, if you want one for yourself, you should have a solid understanding of this species. This is when this guide comes in handy

The Chili Rasbora (Boraras brigittae), commonly known as the Mosquito Rasbora, is a small schooling freshwater fish that has gained popularity among aquarists. Chili Rasboras bring a splash of color to tanks of all sizes thanks to their brilliant hue.

Chili Rasboras are not technically members of the Rasbora family! They were previously categorized as a form of rasbora when discovered in slow-moving ponds and streams throughout Southeast Borneo. Scientists have since classified them into the appropriate genus. However, their trade name has stuck with them.

Whatever you call them, these fish present a unique challenge to fish fans. They aren’t particularly difficult to care for. They do, however, have certain specific care needs if you want them to attain their maximum potential.

II. You would love the fish because…

With just one look at these fish, it’s easy to see why they’re so popular in the fish keeping community. Their most distinguishing trait is their vibrant coloring. Boraras brigittae have a blazing red color, as you could expect from its trade name.

Their bodies are completely coated in crimson and pink. The red is particularly noticeable on a horizontal stripe that runs the length of the body. Males, on average, have a more vibrant hue of red than females.

This red stripe is distinguished by the presence of a strong band of black. The red stripe is directly on top of the black one, producing a noticeable contrast.

Males have brilliant red markings on their fins as well. They are commonly found on the dorsal, anal, and tail fins. The fins are all translucent, giving the tiny red patches the appearance of floating.

Chili Rasboras are fairly thin in shape. They are most girthy in the middle, but the body tapers out to the huge tail fin. The two huge eyes on the heads are the most striking features.

The distinctions between male and female specimens are subtle yet evident. Male fish have higher colour vibrancy, although female fish are slightly larger. When opposed to men, they are frequently rounder and have a duller appearance.

III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

Chili Rasboras are very peaceful fish and can be a bit timid.

IV. Species compatibility

Cherry Barbs, Harlequin Rasboras, Zebra Danios, and other small Cyprinids, Neon, Gold, Glowlight, and other small Tetras. Dwarf Pencilfish, Pea Puffer Fish, Sparkling & Dwarf Gouramis, Bettas, Endler’s Livebearers & Guppies, Corydoras, Otocinclus & other dwarf Catfish.

V. How to feed this species?

They eat micro worms, seed shrimp, daphnia, bug larvae, and other free-swimming invertebrates. What exactly is this? Another reason to keep them in planted aquariums is because plants support the circumstances in which small organisms thrive.

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