🐟 Emerald Dwarf Rasbora Care Guide

1. Tank Size

Minimum: 10 gallons (for a small group).

Recommended: 20 gallons+ for a thriving, natural-looking school.

Key: Like most schooling fish, they need at least 6–10 individuals — but they really shine in larger groups!

2. Water Parameters

Temperature: 68–78°F (20–26°C)

pH: 6.5–7.5

Hardness: 2–10 dGH (soft to moderately hard water)

Ammonia/Nitrites: 0 ppm (they are sensitive to bad water)

Nitrates: Keep low (<20 ppm for best health).

3. Filtration & Flow

Filter: Absolutely — a sponge filter or gentle canister filter is ideal.

Flow: Light to moderate flow — they’re small and can get blown around easily.

Water Changes: 25–40% weekly.

4. Tank Setup

Substrate: Sand or fine gravel — darker substrate really brings out their emerald-green colors.

Plants: Dense planting is a must! Use plants like:

Java Moss

Dwarf Sagittaria

Cryptocorynes

Anubias Nana Petite

Hiding Spots: Driftwood, rock caves, and floating plants create a natural, comforting environment.

Lighting: Moderate — slightly dimmed tanks make them feel secure and show their colors better.

5. Feeding

Diet: Micropredators — they love small live/frozen foods.

Foods:

Live baby brine shrimp

Daphnia

Microworms

Crushed high-quality micro pellets

Fine flakes (if they accept them)

How Often: 1–2 small feedings a day.

6. Behavior

Temperament: Peaceful, calm, but slightly shy. They’re much braver in larger groups.

Tankmates:

Other peaceful nano fish (Chili Rasboras, Pygmy Corydoras, small peaceful shrimp)

Avoid larger or aggressive fish that could intimidate or eat them.

Best: Species-only or very peaceful community tanks.

7. Sexing

Males: Brighter colors, more vivid emerald green with more distinct striping.

Females: Slightly rounder and paler.

8. Breeding

Difficulty: Moderate.

Notes: They scatter eggs among plants. Adults may predate on eggs, so a heavily planted spawning setup or separating eggs helps.

9. Health Notes

Common Issues:

Poor appetite if tankmates outcompete them for food.

Faded color and illness if water quality drops.

Signs of Good Health:

Shimmering emerald green color

Active, curious schooling behavior

Smooth, calm swimming