Chili Rasbora aka Mosquito Rasbora (Boraras brigittae)

From the blackwater streams, pools, and rivers of Kalimantan Tengah and Kalimantan Selatan comes one of the most dazzling nano species in the aquarium hobby: the Chili Rasbora aka Mosquito Rasbora (Boraras brigittae). This tiny fish is anything but ordinary, displaying a palette that ranges from delicate pink-orange to fiery chili-red. A striking, irregular black mark runs along its lateral line, edged with shimmering ruby-gold that catches the light with every movement. In the wild, these fish inhabit soft, tannin-stained waters rich in decaying leaves and organic matter, which provide camouflage and protection from predators. Their natural environment has shaped them into small, alert, and highly social fish that thrive in calm, carefully maintained aquariums, offering a living slice of Borneo’s blackwater streams for home aquarists.

Chili Rasboras are gentle shoaling fish that truly come alive in groups of six or more, their vibrant colors and energetic schooling behavior transforming a planted nano tank into a living jewel box. They prefer calm waters free from aggressive or predatory tank mates, allowing them to swim confidently among dense vegetation, leaf litter, and submerged roots. Their compact size and peaceful temperament make them perfect for biotope-style aquariums or carefully curated small community tanks, where their vivid coloration and graceful movements can be fully appreciated. Against a backdrop of dark substrate and lush greenery, their ruby-gold highlights and rich red tones seem to glow, creating a dynamic, miniature display that captures the eye from every angle. Observing a healthy group of Chili Rasboras shoaling together is a testament to the subtle beauty of Borneo’s waterways and their miniature inhabitants.

In addition to their striking appearance, Chili Rasboras are surprisingly hardy and easy to care for, which adds to their appeal for both experienced aquarists and enthusiasts new to nano species. They readily accept crushed flake foods, micro-pellets, and frozen or live microfoods, and their small size makes them well-suited to frequent, modest feedings that mimic natural grazing. A weekly treat of freshly hatched baby brine shrimp or other live microfoods encourages natural hunting behavior, intensifies their coloration, and keeps them active and engaging to watch. While delicate in appearance, they thrive in soft, slightly acidic water that closely replicates their blackwater habitats, and they benefit from abundant plant cover, shaded areas, and subdued lighting that provide security and highlight their vivid colors. Social by nature, these fish are happiest in groups, where they swim in coordinated shoals, creating a mesmerizing display of color and movement. These fish do not ship individually bagged.

Common Name:  Chili Rasbora / Mosquito Rasbora
Scientific Name:  Boraras brigittae
Country of Import:  Indonesia
Prophylactic Treatment:  Erythromycin / Ich-X / Metro
Approximate Current Size:  .85″ – 1″
Temp/pH/TDS:  75F / 6.5 pH / 74

Please be aware that all fish are sold on a BUY THIS WEEK, SHIP NEXT WEEK basis, and fish are shipped only on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Weekly shipping cutoff is EVERY SATURDAY at 12 Noon Pacific US Time. All fish are shipped via Overnight Air/Next Day Air. Minimum order is $50.00 (excluding shipping) and all orders to the lower 48 US States qualify for FLAT RATE $60.00 shipping via Overnight Air/Next Day Air. Hawaii and Alaska State Residents: Please contact us if you would like to purchase Live Animals for delivery.

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