Harlequinn Rasbora

Price

$6.00incl GST

or 4 interest free payments of $1.50incl GST with

Availability

18 in stock

Quantity

Harlequin Rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha)

The Harlequin Rasbora is a small, colorful freshwater fish popular among aquarium hobbyists. It is known for its striking coloration and peaceful nature, making it a great addition to community tanks.

General Information

  • Scientific Name: Trigonostigma heteromorpha
  • Family: Cyprinidae (carp and minnows)
  • Common Names: Harlequin Rasbora
  • Native Range: Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore
  • Habitat: Slow-moving rivers, streams, and peat swamps with acidic, tannin-rich waters

Physical Characteristics

  • Size: Typically 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm) in length (sale size approx 2cm)
  • Lifespan: Around 5–8 years with proper care
  • Appearance:
    • Silver to reddish-orange body
    • Distinctive black triangular patch extending from the mid-body to the tail
    • Translucent fins with slight reddish hues

Behavior & Temperament

  • Peaceful and social fish
  • Schooling species – should be kept in groups of at least 6 or more
  • Active but not overly aggressive, making them ideal for community tanks

Diet & Feeding Habits

  • Diet Type: Omnivorous
  • Food in the Wild: Small insects, zooplankton, and plant matter
  • Food in Captivity:
    • High-quality flakes or micro pellets
    • Live or frozen foods (daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms)
    • Occasional vegetable matter (blanched spinach, spirulina)

A varied diet enhances their coloration and health.

Aquarium Requirements

  • Tank Size: At least 15 gallons for a small school
  • Water Parameters:
    • Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
    • pH: 5.0–7.5 (prefers slightly acidic water)
    • Hardness: 2–12 dGH (soft to moderately hard water)
  • Tank Setup:
    • Dim lighting with dark substrate to mimic natural conditions
    • Live plants like Java Fern, Anubias, and floating plants
    • Driftwood and leaf litter to create tannin-rich water (optional)
    • Gentle filtration and water flow

Tank Mates & Compatibility

  • Great for peaceful community tanks
  • Best tank mates include:
    • Other small, peaceful fish (Tetras, Danios, Corydoras, Small Gouramis)
    • Dwarf Cichlids (Apistogramma, Rams)
    • Shrimp and snails

Avoid aggressive or large predatory fish, as Harlequin Rasboras are small and vulnerable.

Breeding

  • Egg scatterers – lay eggs on the undersides of broad-leaved plants
  • Best bred in a separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water (pH 5.5–6.5)
  • Spawning Trigger:
    • Warmer water (around 26°C/78°F)
    • Low lighting and plenty of live plants
    • High-protein diet before breeding
  • Eggs hatch in 24–36 hours, and fry become free-swimming after 3–5 days

Interesting Facts

  • The Harlequin Rasbora is not a true Rasbora, as it belongs to the genus Trigonostigma, which was separated from Rasbora due to distinct breeding behaviors.
  • Their black triangular marking is unique and helps them blend into natural environments.
  • These fish thrive in blackwater conditions with tannins from decomposing leaves and driftwood.

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