Redfin Dwarf Rasbora

Rasbora pauciperforata, the red-stripe rasbora or redfin rasbora, is a slender, torpedo-bodied rasbora from the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra. A vivid red mid-lateral stripe runs the full length of the body from behind the eye to the caudal peduncle, contrasting beautifully against the silver body and clear fins. It is a classic Southeast Asian schooling fish.

In nature, R. pauciperforata inhabits slow-moving, often soft, slightly acidic waters including peat swamp margins, forest streams, and rice paddy irrigation channels. It is peaceful, active, and most attractive when kept in schools of ten or more. In a planted aquarium with dark substrate and overhead lighting, the red stripe becomes particularly vivid.

Care is straightforward and this species adapts to a range of water parameters, making it accessible to beginners. It is an excellent companion for small wild bettas, croaking gouramis, or other Southeast Asian nano fish in a planted biotope tank.

Water: 22-27°C, pH 5.5-7.0, soft to moderate — prefers slightly acidic conditions; tolerates range. Tank: 50 L for a school; planted with dark substrate and moderate lighting for best colour expression. Feeding: micro pellets, crushed flake, baby brine shrimp, daphnia — easy and unfussy feeder. Breeding: egg scatterer; requires fine-leaved plants or spawning mops; separate adults after spawning. Compatibility: peaceful community fish; ideal with small rasboras, nano tetras, and peaceful bottom fish.