Rummynose Rasbora (Sawbwa resplendens)

The Rummynose Rasbora (Sawbwa resplendens), also called the Asian Rummy Nose or Sawbwa Barb, is a small cyprinid from Lake Inle and surrounding waters in Myanmar. Though unrelated to the South American Rummy Nose Tetra, it shares strikingly similar coloration: males display a vivid red head, silver-white body, and bright red-tipped caudal fin, creating an obvious parallel appearance.

Females and juveniles are less colorful, displaying more subdued silver with faint pinkish tones. In ideal conditions with soft, cool, well-oxygenated water, males display their most vivid red coloration and engage in lively displays toward each other and females.

Sawbwa resplendens is a specialized species from the alkaline, cool, highly oxygenated waters of Lake Inle — a mountain lake environment quite different from typical tropical aquarium conditions. This means it prefers cooler temperatures (20–24°C) and neutral to slightly alkaline water with good water movement and oxygenation, unlike most tropical community fish.

They are peaceful and sociable, best kept in groups of 8 or more. Their small size (3–4 cm) and active schooling behavior make them excellent candidates for planted nano to medium aquariums with appropriate cool conditions. Their unique water requirements mean careful selection of tankmates is important.

Water Parameters: pH 7.0–8.0, temperature 20–24°C, GH 8–18. As a Lake Inle endemic, this species requires cooler, slightly alkaline, moderately hard water — quite different from many tropical fish. Good oxygenation is essential. Avoid warm, acidic, or soft water conditions.

Tank Setup: A 60-liter minimum for a group of 8. Provide moderate to gentle flow with good oxygenation. Use fine-gravel substrate with hardy plants tolerant of cooler conditions. Open swimming space in the center with planted borders. A secure lid is recommended.

Feeding: Omnivores that accept micro flake food, micro pellets, small frozen foods, and live baby brine shrimp. Feed twice daily in small amounts. Varied diet enhances male coloration.

Tankmates: Keep with other Lake Inle endemics or cool-water species: White Cloud Mountain Minnows, Celestial Pearl Danios (with care), and other cool-tolerant small fish. Avoid warm-water species. Rosy Loaches and Panda Garras make good companions if temperatures align.

Health: Sensitive to warm water and low oxygen. Maintain cool temperatures consistently. Perform 25% weekly water changes. Watch for bacterial infections and ich, which can appear with temperature fluctuations. Avoid overfeeding in smaller volumes.