Rasbora caudimaculata

Rasbora caudimaculata, the Greater Scissortail, is the larger of the two Scissortail Rasboras in the hobby, reaching up to 15 cm. Its most striking feature is the deeply forked tail bearing bold black blotches with yellow or white highlights on each lobe, creating the characteristic scissor pattern that names the group. Native to Sumatra, Borneo, and the Malay Peninsula, it inhabits large, clear, moderately flowing rivers and streams. It requires a spacious aquarium of at least 120 L with substantial horizontal swimming room and very robust filtration. Like other large rasboras it is entirely peaceful despite its size and can be mixed with other medium to large community fish. Feed on floating flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. It is a long-lived, impressive display fish when given adequate space.

Water: Temperature 22–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.0, GH 3–12; good filtration and moderate flow. Tank: 120 L minimum; long tank; open swimming lanes; planted margins; secure lid. Feeding: Medium floating flake, pellet, frozen bloodworm, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; rarely bred in captivity; large conditioning tank needed. Compatibility: Peaceful with medium and large community species; avoid nano fish.