Glowlight Rasbora (Trigonostigma hengeli) Care Guide

A tiny, delicate rasbora with a distinctive glowing orange stripe above a dark wedge-shaped marking. Smaller and more subtly colored than the popular Harlequin Rasbora.

Overview

Trigonostigma hengeli is a species in the family Cyprinidae. A tiny, delicate rasbora with a distinctive glowing orange stripe above a dark wedge-shaped marking. Smaller and more subtly colored than the popular Harlequin Rasbora. Perfect for nano aquariums and densely planted setups. Best in large schools of 10+.

Taxonomy

Family: Cyprinidae
Genus: Trigonostigma
Scientific name: Trigonostigma hengeli
Other names: Hengel's Rasbora
Origin: Southeast Asia

Habitat

Endemic to blackwater peat swamps and forest streams of Borneo, particularly in the Kapuas basin. Inhabits very soft, acidic, tannin-stained water. A small shoaling cyprinid distinguished from the harlequin rasbora by a thinner, glowing copper-orange flank marking.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 30 L
Temperature: 23-28 °C
pH: 5-7
GH: 1-10 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 2-3 cm
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Recommended group size: ≥ 10
Difficulty: beginner

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: Ember Tetra, Cherry Shrimp, Otocinclus, Pygmy Corydoras
Avoid with: Large Fish, Aggressive Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
Breeding difficulty: intermediate