The Red-tailed Rasbora (Rasbora borapetensis) is a lively and attractive schooling fish native to slow-moving streams, canals, and flooded rice paddies in Thailand and Myanmar. Growing to approximately 5 cm, it has a streamlined silver body adorned with a prominent black lateral stripe running from the snout to the base of the tail, and a distinctive bright red caudal fin that becomes more vivid in healthy, well-conditioned fish. The contrast between the dark stripe and the red tail makes this species particularly eye-catching when kept in groups. In the wild, Red-tailed Rasboras inhabit relatively calm, vegetated waters with neutral to mildly acidic pH and moderate hardness. In the aquarium, they are quite adaptable and can tolerate a range of water conditions within sensible limits, making them a good choice for intermediate to beginner hobbyists. A planted aquarium with open swimming areas is ideal. They are active mid-water swimmers and tend to shoal tightly when slightly startled, creating a beautiful synchronized display. They are peaceful toward all tankmates and mix well with other community fish of similar size, including tetras, other rasboras, small catfish, and livebearers. Red-tailed Rasboras are omnivores that accept a wide variety of foods including flake, micro-pellets, daphnia, and frozen or live bloodworms and brine shrimp.
