Our Guide To Keeping Phoenix Rasbora Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Boraras merah
   • Common name: Phoenix Rasbora
   • Family: Danionidae
   • Origin: Peat swamp forests and slow-moving streams of Borneo, Indonesia
   • Adult length: 2 cm
   • Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
   • Diet: Micropredatory Omnivore
   • Care Level: Easy to Moderate
   • Temperament: Peaceful

2. Tank Setup:

   • Phoenix Rasboras are best kept in a mature, heavily planted aquarium with a minimum tank size of 45L for a small shoal. Larger aquariums provide greater stability and allow for larger groups.
   • Provide a dark substrate, driftwood, branches and leaf litter to recreate their natural blackwater habitat.
   • Dense planting with species such as Java Moss, Cryptocoryne, Java Fern and floating plants helps these fish feel secure while enhancing their vibrant red colouration.
   • Leave open swimming areas between planted sections so the shoal can display its natural schooling behaviour.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Phoenix Rasboras prefer soft, acidic water with a pH range of 4.5 to 6.8, although captive-bred specimens usually adapt well to slightly higher pH values provided conditions remain stable.
   • Maintain the water temperature between 23 and 28°C (73 to 82°F).
   • Soft water with very low nitrate levels will help maintain excellent health and vibrant colours.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A gentle filter producing minimal water movement is ideal, as this species naturally inhabits slow-moving forest streams.
   • Sponge filters or well-adjusted external filters with spray bars provide excellent biological filtration without creating excessive current.
   • Regular partial water changes are recommended to maintain pristine water quality.

5. Diet:

   • Phoenix Rasboras are micropredators that feed on tiny aquatic invertebrates in the wild.
   • Offer high-quality crushed flakes or micro pellets as a staple diet.
   • Supplement regularly with live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops and microworms to encourage breeding, improve colouration and maintain excellent health.
   • Feed small portions two or three times daily due to their tiny stomachs.

6. Tank Mates:

   • Phoenix Rasboras are peaceful shoaling fish and should always be kept in groups of at least 8 to 10 individuals. Larger groups display more confident behaviour and richer colours.
   • Suitable tank mates include other Boraras species, Chili Rasboras, Ember Tetras, Celestial Pearl Danios, Pygmy Corydoras, Otocinclus, small peaceful gouramis and freshwater shrimp.
   • Avoid housing them with large, fast-swimming or predatory fish that may outcompete them for food or view them as prey.

7. Behaviour and Compatibility:

   • Phoenix Rasboras are calm, active shoaling fish that spend much of their time swimming through the middle and upper areas of the aquarium.
   • Males become noticeably brighter red when displaying to females or competing with rival males, particularly in densely planted aquariums.
   • These fish thrive in peaceful community aquariums where they are not intimidated by larger or aggressive species.
   • Stable water conditions, subdued lighting and abundant cover help them exhibit their most natural behaviour and brightest colouration.