HARLEQUIN RASBORAS

Harlequin Rasboras (Trigonostigma heteromorpha) are small, colorful freshwater fish known for their peaceful nature and striking black triangular marking on their orange-copper bodies. They are a popular choice for community tanks due to their ease of care and active schooling behavior. Here’s a detailed care guide for Harlequin Rasboras:

Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: A 10-gallon tank is the minimum for a small school (6-8 fish), but larger tanks (20+ gallons) are preferred for larger groups.
• Aquascaping:
  • Provide plenty of open swimming spaces since Harlequin Rasboras are active mid-level swimmers.
  • Use live plants, driftwood, and rocks to create hiding spots and shaded areas. These fish come from densely vegetated environments and will appreciate plants like Java fern, Anubias, or Cryptocoryne.
• Substrate: A dark, sandy or fine gravel substrate enhances their vibrant coloration.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal. They thrive with subdued lighting or floating plants that help dim the light and mimic their natural habitat.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72-80°F (22-27°C) is optimal for Harlequin Rasboras.
• pH Range: 6.0-7.5; they prefer slightly acidic to neutral water.
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2-12 dGH).
• Filtration: Ensure good filtration to maintain clean water but avoid strong water currents. A sponge filter or low-flow filter is a good option for these gentle swimmers.

Diet

• Primary Diet: They are omnivores and will readily eat high-quality flake or micro-pellet food designed for small tropical fish.
• Supplemental Foods: Enhance their diet with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. This helps bring out their vibrant colors and supports overall health.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them 1-2 times daily, offering only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes.