Rasbora Elegans

Datasheet

General Description

The Elegant Rasbora (Rasbora Elegans) is distinguishable from similar-looking members of the genus by lacking a dark stripe along the lateral line, possessing two spot-like markings on each flank, and exhibiting a gregarious nature. It belongs to the family Cyprinidae and can reach a maximum size of 20.0cm.

Aquarium Setup

The Elegant Rasbora thrives in aquariums with a minimum size of 255 litres, designed to resemble its natural habitats including flowing rivers or peat swamp environments. Decor should include substrates of rocks and gravel, water-worn boulders, driftwood branches, and aquatic plants such as Java fern. Water conditions must be closely monitored with a hardness of 2-12 dH, pH of 5.0-7.5, and a temperature range of 22-25°C.

Behaviour

Though a peaceful species, the Elegant Rasbora may unsettle slower or shyer companions due to its size. It shows its best colors and behavior in groups of at least six individuals in a community aquarium setting. The fish are less nervous and exhibit a more natural behavior when kept in the company of conspecifics.

Feeding and Diet

Feeding the Elegant Rasbora is uncomplicated in captivity. A diet consisting of live and frozen foods like bloodworm, Daphnia, and Artemia, along with high-quality dried flakes and granules, helps maintain the fish's optimal colors and condition.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Breeding the Elegant Rasbora is achievable in a mature, densely planted aquarium. The species is an egg-scattering, continuous spawner with no parental care. Mature females are distinguished by a rounder belly and usually larger size than males. Providing controlled breeding conditions with dim lighting and proper water parameters can facilitate successful reproduction.

Habitat and Distribution

This adaptable species is native to Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, Borneo, and Sumatra, thriving in swiftly-flowing forest streams and blackwaters with soft, acidic conditions. Its distribution spans across various regions such as Johor, Pahang, Singapore, Nias, and river basins in Borneo. The Elegant Rasbora is commonly encountered in the central catchment area of Singapore.