Raiamas guttatus

Raiamas guttatus, commonly known as the Burmese Trout or Burmese Iridescent Shark Minnow, is one of the largest danionid species kept in the hobby. Native to the clear, flowing rivers of Myanmar, it is a powerful, torpedo-shaped fish with a brilliant silver body covered in dark irregular spots and an overall iridescent sheen that catches light dramatically as the fish moves.

In the aquarium it requires a very large tank — a minimum of 400 litres — with strong filtration and high oxygenation to accommodate its active swimming and predatory habits. It will eat any fish small enough to fit in its mouth and should be housed only with species of comparable size. A group of four or more creates an impressive, fast-moving school.

Raiamas guttatus is a specialist fish suited to advanced aquarists with the space and resources to house it properly. It rewards its keeper with spectacular, vigorous behaviour and a commanding presence that few other freshwater species can match.

Water: Temperature 20–26°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15; high oxygen levels essential; strong external filtration required. Tank: Minimum 400 L; long tank footprint preferred; minimal décor to allow free swimming; robust or no live plants. Feeding: Predatory carnivore; accepts large pellets, whole krill, lance fish, and earthworms; live feeder fish should be avoided. Breeding: Not bred in home aquariums; requires very large facilities and likely hormonal induction. Compatibility: Predatory toward small fish; house with large robust cyprinids, medium catfish, or other Raiamas of similar size.