Harlequin Rasbora care guide
Harlequin Rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha) — minimum tank 40 L, temperature 22-28 °C, pH 5.5-7. Peaceful middle-water species.
Overview
The Harlequin Rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha) is a small cyprinid recognised by a distinctive dark triangular wedge on a copper-orange body. Peaceful, hardy and visually striking in groups, it is a long-standing staple of planted community aquaria.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Genus: Trigonostigma
- Scientific name: Trigonostigma heteromorpha
- Common synonyms: Red Rasbora
Habitat
Native to peat swamp forest streams of Malaysia, Singapore, Sumatra and Borneo. The waters are characterised by low mineral content and high concentrations of dissolved humic acids, producing chemistry comparable to South American blackwater habitats.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L (10.6 US gal)
- Adult size: 3-5 cm
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7
- GH: 1-10 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
- School size: ≥8 individuals
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore that accepts most prepared foods. A varied diet of high-quality flake or micro-pellets supplemented with small live or frozen foods such as daphnia and bloodworms maintains optimum colour and condition.
Compatibility
A peaceful schooling species. Keep at least eight individuals to support natural behaviour. Pairs well with small tetras, Corydoras, Otocinclus, Cherry Barb and small gouramis. Avoid combining with large or boisterous cichlids.
Breeding
Unusual among cyprinids, Harlequin Rasboras are adhesive egg-layers that deposit eggs on the underside of broad-leaved plants rather than scattering them. Soft, acidic water and a separate breeding tank with broadleaf plants such as Cryptocoryne are required.