🐟 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
