Chili Rasbora

Chili Rasbora – Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Boraras brigittae
Common Name: Chili Rasbora
Size: ~0.7 inch (1.8 cm)
Lifespan: 4–6 years
Temperament: Peaceful, shy, schooling
Tank Level: Mid to top

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• pH: 5.0–7.0 (slightly acidic ideal)

• Hardness: Soft water (1–10 dGH)

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Tank Requirements:

• Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons (for small group); 10+ gallons preferred

• Schooling Fish: Keep in groups of 8–10+ for comfort and natural behavior

• Aquascape: Heavily planted, low flow, dark substrate preferred

• Lighting: Low to moderate (enhances color and reduces stress)

Diet:

• Micro-predators:

  • Micro pellets

  • Crushed flakes

  • Live/frozen foods: baby brine shrimp, daphnia, micro worms

• Feed small portions 1–2x daily

Tankmates:

• Ideal with other peaceful nano species:

  • Otocinclus

  • Dwarf shrimp (e.g., Cherry, Amano)

  • Pygmy Corydoras

  • Other micro rasboras or small tetras

• Avoid: Larger or aggressive fish

Notes:

• Very peaceful and easy to stress—best in species or carefully selected nano community tanks

• Do well in blackwater or tannin-rich environments

• Excellent choice for planted and low-tech nano aquariums