RUMMY RASBORAS

The Rummy Rasbora (Sawbwa resplendens), also known as the Asian Rummynose or Sawbwa Barb, is a beautiful and peaceful species known for its distinctive appearance, with males displaying a vibrant red nose and silver-blue body. Despite the name, they are not true rasboras, but their peaceful nature and schooling behavior make them similar in care to other small community fish. Native to Inle Lake in Myanmar (Burma), Rummy Rasboras thrive in well-maintained aquariums with clean water and the right environment. Here’s a detailed care guide for these stunning fish:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is suitable for a small group of Rummy Rasboras, but a 20-gallon tank or larger is recommended to allow for ample swimming space and a larger school (8-10 fish).
• Aquascape: Rummy Rasboras prefer a natural-looking setup with live plants, driftwood, and smooth rocks. Floating plants or tall, leafy plants will help create shaded areas they enjoy. Make sure to leave plenty of open space for swimming, as they are active fish.
• Substrate: A dark, sandy or fine gravel substrate will contrast beautifully with their colors, and also mimics their natural environment.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal. Too much light can cause stress, so dimming the lights or providing plants that offer shade will keep them comfortable.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Keep the temperature between 68-75°F (20-24°C). Rummy Rasboras prefer cooler water than many tropical fish, so make sure not to overheat the tank.
• pH: A pH range of 6.5-7.5 is ideal for Rummy Rasboras. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water.
• Hardness: These fish do best in soft to moderately hard water, with a general hardness (GH) of 4-12 dGH.
• Water Quality: Rummy Rasboras are sensitive to poor water conditions, so regular water changes (20-30% weekly) and good filtration are important to maintain clean, stable water.

Filtration and Water Flow

• Filtration: Use a high-quality filter to ensure proper water circulation and cleanliness. A sponge filter or a gentle hang-on-back filter works well, as these fish prefer a calm environment.
• Water Flow: Moderate water flow is best, as they are accustomed to slow-moving waters in their natural habitat. Avoid strong currents, which may stress them.

Feeding

• Diet: Rummy Rasboras are omnivores, but they have a preference for small live and frozen foods. Offer a varied diet that includes high-quality micro-pellets or flakes, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms to ensure they get enough protein.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them 1-2 times daily. Give them only as much food as they can eat in a couple of minutes to prevent overfeeding and poor water quality.
• Variety: A varied diet will not only keep them healthy but also enhance their vibrant colors.