🌿 Perfect Aquascaping Inhabitant & 100% Invertebrate-Friendly
Due to their maximum miniature size, Phoenix Rasboras are the gold standard for high-end aquascapes and nano tanks. Unlike larger species that disrupt meticulous layouts or create heavy bioloads, these tiny fish cruise gracefully through dense vegetation without bothering your setup.
They are exceptionally peaceful and make one of the safest choices for dwarf shrimp setups. While large fish readily prey on shrimp, the Phoenix Rasbora’s tiny anatomy means they pose no threat to adult dwarf shrimp and will actively co-exist peacefully alongside them. They look breathtaking when schooling tightly against a background of lush green mosses, dark driftwood, and bright aquatic plants.
🐟 Fish Specifications & Water Parameters
Parameter | Specification | Technical Notes |
Scientific Name | Boraras merah | Authentic wild-type coloration with high-contrast lateral markings |
Common Names | Phoenix Rasbora, Merah Rasbora | High-traffic search terms with exceptional online buyer intent |
Maximum Size | 0.6 – 0.8 inches (1.5 – 2.0 cm) | True micro-fish size, perfect for specialized nano and desktop aquariums |
Diet | Omnivore / Micro-Predator | Accepts crushed high-quality flakes, micropellets, baby brine shrimp, and daphnia |
Behavior | Peaceful Schooling Fish | Must be kept in groups of 6 or more (10+ recommended) to ensure confidence and color display |
🛠️ Lighting, Water Parameters & Care Guide
Schooling & Group Dynamics: Must be kept in groups. The Phoenix Rasbora is a shoaling species by nature. Keeping them in numbers not only reduces stress and promotes active swimming patterns, but the natural social hierarchy also causes the dominant males to display incredibly intense, fiery red color saturation.
Lighting & Habitat Preferences: Thrives beautifully under full-spectrum LED fixtures, especially when the tank features plenty of live plants, floating vegetation, and leaf litter. Darker substrates and shaded areas mimic their natural blackwater habitats, making their neon accents pop dramatically.
Water Chemistry Parameters: Prefers soft, slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0 – 7.0, a gH of 1–5, and a stable temperature range of 20°C – 28°C (68°F – 82°F). Consistent water parameters and clean conditions are key to their longevity.
Ideal Tankmates: Perfect for housing alongside other peaceful nano species such as micro-rasboras, small corydoras, otocinclus, freshwater snails, and various dwarf shrimp varieties. Avoid keeping them with any large or aggressive fish that could easily mistake them for food.