Red Finned Rasbora

The Redfin Rasbora (Rasbora borapetensis) is part of the Cyprinidae family and is native to regions of Asia, including the Mekong, Chao Phraya, and Mae Klong river basins, as well as the northern Malay Peninsula. In the aquarium trade, this species is also known as the red-tailed rasbora, bora bora rasbora, or brilliant rasbora.

Description

The Redfin Rasbora features a sleek, silver body with a distinctive dark brown or black stripe running along its side, from the gills to the base of the tail fin. Above this dark stripe, there is a gold line that adds to its striking appearance. Its caudal (tail) fin is bright red, which gives this fish its name, and unlike similar species, such as Rasbora einthovenii, it lacks any black pigmentation in the tail. Males and females look alike, though females tend to be slightly larger. The fish can grow up to 2.5 inches (64 mm) in length.

Habitat

In the wild, Redfin Rasboras swim in the mid to upper levels of ponds, ditches, canals, and shallow reservoirs, usually in water depths of about 2 meters or less. They thrive in water with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0, moderate water hardness (dH 5-12), and temperatures ranging from 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F).

In the Aquarium

The Redfin Rasbora is a popular choice among aquarists due to its peaceful nature and adaptability. It prefers slow-moving, well-planted tanks and is a true schooling fish, often seen darting around in tight groups at the middle and upper levels of the aquarium. These hardy fish do well with other peaceful species, making them ideal tankmates for loaches, tetras, livebearers, plecos, and rainbowfish.