Strawberry Rasbora (Boraras naevus)

The Strawberry Rasbora (Boraras naevus) is a tiny freshwater nano fish native to the Malay Peninsula, specifically limited to the lower Tapi River drainage on the Gulf of Thailand side. First described from a swampy area east of the road north of Amphoe Tha Chana, 83 kilometers before Surat Thani on the road from Lang Suan in Surat Thani Province, this species thrives in highly specialized habitats. Its preferred environments are shallow, slow-moving waters such as peat swamps, marshes, forest streams, and small ponds. These waters are typically rich in submerged and emergent vegetation, and their soft, acidic blackwater conditions result from tannins leached from decomposing organic matter. While some general sources mention Malaysia as part of its range, the scientific literature primarily confirms its distribution in peninsular Thailand, emphasizing the species’ localized nature and ecological specificity.

In the aquarium, the Strawberry Rasbora is prized for both its vivid coloration and subtle, lively behavior. Adults remain tiny, around 1.5 to 2 centimeters in length, with an overall strawberry-red hue highlighted by a small, darker spot on the side of the body and flame tips on their fins. Many hobbyists compare its bright red coloration to the famed Chili Rasbora, though the Strawberry Rasbora tends to group and shoal more naturally and cohesively in a planted aquarium than Chili Rasboras do, making it particularly engaging to watch in a dense, planted tank. This small size allows the species to thrive in planted nano aquariums, densely vegetated tanks, or carefully designed aquascapes where it can navigate stems, leaves, and floating plants with ease. The fish is peaceful and shoaling, so keeping groups of eight or more not only provides security but also encourages the display of natural schooling behavior, which adds visual interest and constant motion. Soft lighting and subdued water flow further enhance the iridescent and translucent qualities of the body, creating a living accent that complements mosses, driftwood, and other greenery.

For hobbyists seeking a nano community fish that combines subtlety with brilliance, the Strawberry Rasbora is an ideal choice. Its small stature, gentle temperament, and active schooling make it compatible with other micro-fish species or tiny invertebrates in a planted environment. The fish thrives on a diet of micro-pellets, finely crushed flake, and small live or frozen foods, making it both visually rewarding and relatively easy to maintain when water quality is stable. Its combination of striking coloration, dynamic behavior, and compatibility with medium to small planted aquariums makes it a standout in any aquascape, providing both constant motion and natural beauty in miniature. This fish does not ship individually bagged.

Common Name:  Strawberry Rasbora
Scientific Name:  Bororas naevus
Country of Import:  Czech Republic
Prophylactic Treatment:  Erythromycin / Ich-X / Metro
Approximate Current Size:  .75″ – .90″
Temp/pH/TDS:  75F / 6.5 pH / 80

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