Strawberry Rasbora

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Boraras merah
• Common Name: Strawberry Rasbora
• Adult Size: 0.6 to 0.8 inches (1.5 to 2 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 4 to 6 years
• Habitat: Found in peat swamp forests and slow-moving blackwater streams in southern Borneo (Indonesia); natural habitat is acidic, tannin-stained water with dense vegetation and leaf litter

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons (19 liters), ideally 10+ gallons for a larger group
• Ideal Temperature: 72–80°F (22–27°C)
• pH Range: 4.0–6.8
• Water Hardness: Very soft to soft (1–8 dGH)
• Temperament: Extremely peaceful and shy; best kept in groups of 8 or more to reduce stress and encourage schooling behavior

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes — in the wild, feeds on microcrustaceans and insect larvae. In captivity, it accepts micro pellets, crushed flakes, and small live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and microworms. A varied diet enhances health and color.

Appearance

• Slender, torpedo-shaped body with vibrant red to orange hues, especially in males
• Prominent dark spot near the tail with subtle iridescent blue or green shimmer
• Males are more intensely colored and slightly slimmer; females are rounder and paler
• Color intensity increases with good water quality, dark substrate, and proper lighting

Distinctive Features

• One of the smallest aquarium fish, perfect for nano tanks
• Ideal for blackwater or heavily planted aquascapes
• Responsive to peaceful tankmates and secure environments
• Very active in schools, often seen darting together mid-water
• Sensitive to poor water quality — requires stable, clean, soft water conditions