Harlequin Rasbora

The Harlequin Rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha) is a classic freshwater schooling fish known for its shimmering orange-pink body and bold black triangular patch. Peaceful, active, and hardy, Harlequin Rasboras are a great choice for community aquariums, planted tanks, and beginner fishkeepers.

These popular rasboras look best when kept in groups, where they show natural schooling behavior and bring constant movement to the aquarium. Their peaceful nature makes them a great fit for many freshwater community setups.

Key Features

• Popular freshwater schooling fish
• Orange-pink body with a distinct black triangular patch
• Peaceful and active community fish
• Hardy and beginner-friendly
• Great for planted aquariums and aquascapes
• Best kept in groups of 8 or more
• Grows up to about 1.75–2 inches

Care Requirements

• Scientific Name: Trigonostigma heteromorpha
• Common Name: Harlequin Rasbora
• Adult Size: Around 1.75–2 inches
• Temperament: Peaceful and active
• Tank Size: 10 gallons or larger recommended
• Care Level: Beginner-friendly
• Diet: Omnivore

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–80°F
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water Flow: Gentle to moderate flow preferred

Diet

Harlequin Rasboras are omnivores and do best on a varied diet. Feed a quality tropical flake or micro pellet as the staple food, and offer variety with frozen or live foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and other small foods.

Schooling Behavior

Harlequin Rasboras should be kept in groups for best color, confidence, and natural behavior. A group of 8 is a good minimum, while 10 or more will create a more active and attractive school.

Tank Setup

A planted aquarium with open swimming space is ideal for Harlequin Rasboras. Live plants, driftwood, and gentle filtration help create a calm environment while still giving them room to school and explore.

Good Tank Mates

• Other peaceful rasboras
• Small peaceful tetras
• Corydoras catfish
• Guppies
• Peaceful gouramis
• Shrimp
• Snails
• Other calm community fish

Tank Mates to Avoid

• Large predatory fish
• Aggressive cichlids
• Fin-nipping species
• Very boisterous tank mates that may outcompete them for food

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Harlequin Rasboras should I keep?

Keep at least 8 Harlequin Rasboras for proper schooling behavior. A group of 10 or more is even better when tank size allows.

Are Harlequin Rasboras good for beginners?

Yes. Harlequin Rasboras are hardy, peaceful, and easy to care for, making them a great beginner-friendly schooling fish.

Are Harlequin Rasboras shrimp-safe?

Harlequin Rasboras are generally peaceful with adult shrimp. Very tiny shrimplets may be eaten, so planted cover or moss is helpful in shrimp tanks.

Do Harlequin Rasboras need live plants?

Live plants are not required, but they are highly recommended. Plants help reduce stress, improve natural behavior, and make their orange and black coloration stand out beautifully.

What do Harlequin Rasboras eat?

They eat small tropical flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods, and live foods. Choose foods small enough for them to eat comfortably.

Are Harlequin Rasboras good community fish?

Yes. Harlequin Rasboras are peaceful schooling fish that do well with many other calm freshwater community species.

Shop Harlequin Rasboras at Tropical Treasures Wyo

Harlequin Rasboras are peaceful, hardy, and colorful schooling fish that make a beautiful addition to planted aquariums and freshwater community tanks. Shop Harlequin Rasboras and other rasboras at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

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