Fish of the Month!

The Harlequin Rasbora (Rasbora heteromorpha) is a small fish, which is a member of the Cyprinidae family. The Harlequin Rasbora is described as being differently shaped (heteromorpha translating from Greek “differently shaped”) as compared to other members of the Rasbora family. This striking Rasbora with its reddish copper body and trademarked triangular black silhouette towards its caudal fin, makes a wonderful addition to any peaceful home aquarium. In the wild, the natural habitat for the Harlequin Rasbora are streams and rivers located in the peat swamp forests in southeast Asia. Due to dissolving foliage these tributaries are quite soft attributable to the low dissolved mineral content. It is relatively easy to mimic the natural environment of the Harlequin Rasbora with the use of CaribSea’s Instant Amazon Blackwater Solution which will release the tannins usually leeched by the decaying plant matter.

The Harlequin Rasbora is incredibly hearty, adaptable to varied pH levels and disease resistant. We recommend a moderate pH near 7.2 and a tropical temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Growing to almost two inches these fish never damage fragile aquarium plants and are never reported biting or bullying tank mates. Keep them in a school of five or more when space permits and fully colored males will display the brightest colors for the surrounding females. These eager fish accept most prepared and frozen foods including frozen brine, New Life Spectrum Community Flake, and Hikari’s Micro Pellet. Keeping this species is not only easy but a highly rewarding addition to any community aquarium.