Chili Rasbora Care Guide ️
The Chili Rasbora (Boraras brigittae) is a tiny yet brilliantly colored freshwater fish native to the blackwater streams of Borneo. With their fiery red bodies and peaceful nature, these miniature fish are perfect for nano aquariums and planted tanks where their colors truly shine.
Tank Requirements
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Tank Size: Minimum 30 L (larger for bigger groups)
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Temperature: 23 – 28 °C
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pH: 5.0 – 7.0
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Water Hardness: Soft (1 – 8 dGH)
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Filtration: Gentle flow using a sponge or nano filter (they prefer calm waters)
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Décor: Dark substrate, dense live plants, driftwood, and leaf litter to recreate their natural blackwater habitat
Social Behavior
Chili Rasboras are peaceful shoaling fish that thrive in groups of at least 8–10 individuals. The larger the group, the more confident they become — and the more vibrant their red coloration appears.
️ Diet
They are micro-predators, eating tiny foods in nature.
Offer a varied diet of:
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Micro pellets or crushed flakes
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Live or frozen foods like baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and micro worms
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Occasional finely powdered or liquid fry food for variety
Feed small portions 2–3 times daily.
Breeding
Breeding can occur in heavily planted tanks. Males display their brightest colors while courting females. They scatter eggs among fine plants or moss, and adults should be removed afterward to protect the eggs.
Interesting Fact
Despite their size — adults grow only about 1.5–2 cm long — Chili Rasboras display brilliant fiery red hues that intensify under soft, tannin-rich water and dim lighting. In fact, their color is often most vivid in blackwater setups, where they look like glowing embers drifting through the plants.
Reference: Bubbly Fish – creating underwater wonders.
