Emerald Dwarf Rasbora (Microdevario erythromicron) Care Guide

A stunningly colored micro fish endemic to Inle Lake in Myanmar. Features alternating vertical bands of emerald green and orange-pink, with bright orange fins.

Overview

Microdevario erythromicron is a species in the family Cyprinidae. A stunningly colored micro fish endemic to Inle Lake in Myanmar. Features alternating vertical bands of emerald green and orange-pink, with bright orange fins. Males display more intense coloration and engage in fascinating sparring displays. Prefers cooler water than most tropical fish, reflecting its high-altitude lake origins.

Taxonomy

Family: Cyprinidae
Genus: Microdevario
Scientific name: Microdevario erythromicron
Other names: Microrasbora erythromicron, Myanmar Dwarf Rasbora
Origin: Southeast Asia

Habitat

Endemic to Inle Lake and adjacent waters of the Shan Plateau in Myanmar. Inhabits shallow, clear, slightly alkaline water among dense marginal vegetation. A small shoaling cyprinid with emerald-green vertical bars, formerly placed in the genus Microrasbora.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 40 L
Temperature: 20-25 °C
pH: 7-8
GH: 5-15 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 2-3 cm
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Recommended group size: ≥ 10
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Celestial Pearl Danio, Pygmy Corydoras, Cherry Shrimp, Otocinclus, Other Inle Lake species
Avoid with: Large or aggressive fish, Very warm water species

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
Breeding difficulty: intermediate