Chili Rasbora
The chili rasbora, Boraras brigittae, is a strikingly colorful and tiny freshwater fish native to the slow-moving blackwater streams and peat swamps of Borneo, Indonesia. Known for its vibrant red coloration and delicate, slender body, this species typically grows to about 0.8 inches in length. Chili rasboras feature a deep red body with a prominent dark stripe along the side, which gives them a bold, eye-catching appearance despite their small size.
These peaceful schooling fish are ideal for nano or community tanks with other small, non-aggressive species. Chili rasboras thrive in well-planted aquariums that mimic their natural habitat, with subdued lighting, gentle water flow, and soft, slightly acidic water. They prefer temperatures between 72-82°F and a pH of 4.0-7.0. As omnivores, chili rasboras enjoy a varied diet of high-quality micro-pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods like daphnia and baby brine shrimp.
Their striking color, active behavior, and suitability for small tanks make chili rasboras a popular choice among aquarists, especially those with planted or blackwater nano setups looking for a vibrant and peaceful addition.