Lambchop Rasbora (Trigonostigma espei) Care Guide

A slender, copper-orange schooling fish with a distinctive dark lambchop-shaped marking on its side. Closely related to the Harlequin Rasbora but more slender and with a brighter, more coppery colorat…

Overview

Trigonostigma espei is a species in the family Cyprinidae. A slender, copper-orange schooling fish with a distinctive dark lambchop-shaped marking on its side. Closely related to the Harlequin Rasbora but more slender and with a brighter, more coppery coloration. Perfect for planted nano and community tanks.

Taxonomy

Family: Cyprinidae
Genus: Trigonostigma
Scientific name: Trigonostigma espei
Other names: Espei Rasbora
Origin: Southeast Asia, Thailand

Habitat

Native to slow-flowing forest streams and peat swamps of south-eastern Thailand and Cambodia. Inhabits soft, acidic, tannin-stained blackwater shaded by overhanging vegetation. Long confused with the related Trigonostigma heteromorpha.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 30 L
Temperature: 23-28 °C
pH: 5.5-7
GH: 1-10 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 2-3 cm
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Recommended group size: ≥ 8
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: Neon Tetra, Corydoras, Cherry Shrimp, Otocinclus, Ember Tetra
Avoid with: Oscar, Betta, Large Cichlids

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-layer
Breeding difficulty: intermediate