Burmese Green Rasbora

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Microrasbora kubotai
• Common Name: Burmese Green Rasbora (also known as Neon Green Rasbora or Kubotai Rasbora)
• Adult Size: 1.5 to 2 cm (0.6 to 0.8 inches)
• Life Expectancy: 3 to 5 years in well-maintained aquariums
• Habitat: Clear, slow-moving forest streams in southern Myanmar (Burma), often with dense aquatic vegetation and clean, soft water

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons (best kept in groups, so 10 gallons or more is recommended)
• Ideal Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: 1–10 dGH (soft to moderately hard)
• Temperament: Very peaceful and social. Best kept in schools of at least 8–10. Ideal for nano tanks or peaceful community tanks with similarly sized tankmates.

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes. In the wild, they consume microinvertebrates and algae. In captivity, feed:

  • High-quality micro-pellets or crushed flakes
  • Live or frozen foods such as daphnia, baby brine shrimp, microworms
  • Occasional plant-based or spirulina-based foods to support coloration and health

Appearance

• Body Color: Bright neon green to yellowish-green with a subtle iridescence
• Markings: Lacks strong body markings but glows under good lighting, especially against dark substrates and dense plants
• Size: Small and slender with a semi-transparent body that enhances their shimmering appearance

Distinctive Features

• One of the brightest naturally green freshwater fish available
• Extremely peaceful nature and small size make them perfect for nano aquascapes
• Glow-like appearance under LED lighting makes them stand out in planted tanks
• Best coloration is seen in soft, slightly acidic water with dense vegetation and subdued lighting