🌶️ Chili Rasbora Care Guide (Boraras brigittae)
🌟 Overview The Chili Rasbora (Boraras brigittae), also known as the Mosquito Rasbora, is a stunning nano fish prized for its fiery red coloration and tiny size. Native to the blackwater streams of Borneo, Chili Rasboras thrive in heavily planted aquariums and are best kept in large schools, where they display their most natural and active behavior.
🔑 Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Boraras brigittae
- Common Names: Chili Rasbora, Mosquito Rasbora
- Origin: Borneo, Southeast Asia
- Size: 0.6–0.8 inches (1.5–2 cm)
- Lifespan: 4–6 years
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
- Care Level: Moderate (due to size and feeding needs)
🏠 Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons (better in 10+ gallons for larger schools)
- Water Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
- pH: 5.0–7.0 (soft, slightly acidic preferred)
- Hardness: 1–6 dGH
- Aquascape: Heavily planted, dark substrate, floating plants for shade
- Filtration: Gentle flow (sponge filter recommended)
🍽️ Diet
- Chili Rasboras are micro-predators and prefer very small foods:
- Crushed flakes & micro-pellets
- Live and frozen foods: baby brine shrimp, daphnia, microworms
- Specialized nano foods (powdered or micro-sized)
- They thrive on frequent, small feedings.
🧑🤝🧑 Tank Mates
- Best with other tiny peaceful nano species: celestial pearl danios, ember tetras, scarlet badis
- Great with shrimp and snails (though they may snack on shrimp fry)
- Avoid large or boisterous tank mates
🧠 Behavior & Tips
- Always keep in groups of 10 or more for confidence and schooling displays
- Their colors intensify with tannin-rich water (Indian almond leaves, driftwood)
- They are shy in small groups but very active in larger schools
- Excellent for nano aquariums and planted aquascapes
❓ FAQ
Q: How many Chili Rasboras should be kept together?
A: At least 10+, as they are shoaling fish and feel secure in larger groups.
Q: Can Chili Rasboras live in a 5-gallon tank?
A: Yes, a small group can live in 5 gallons, but they do best in larger tanks.
Q: Do Chili Rasboras need a heater?
A: Yes, they prefer warm, stable water around 76–80°F.
Q: Are they beginner-friendly?
A: Yes, but their small size means they need carefully chosen tank mates and foods.