A living spark of neon red barely two centimetres long, one of the tiniest fish in the hobby. In a densely planted nano tank a shoal glows like embers among the leaves.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Skin conditions
- Swim bladder disorder
Care at a glance
- ExerciseLow
A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.
- GroomingRoutine tank care
Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment4–8 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Skin conditions
📖 Care guide
The chili rasbora (Boraras brigittae) is a nano fish from the tannin-stained blackwater peat swamps of southwestern Borneo in Indonesia. One of the smallest aquarium fish at barely 2 cm, it lives 4–8 years. Males glow an intense neon red, while females are more subdued, and a shoal resembles drifting embers. Because they are so tiny, chili rasboras are ideal for a densely planted nano tank of 30 litres or more, kept in a group of ten or more. They need soft, acidic blackwater conditions — 24–28°C with a pH of 4.0–7.0 — with dark substrate, driftwood, leaf litter and gentle filtration. Their small size makes stable water quality especially important. They are micro-predators that require very small foods: crushed flake, micro-pellets, and live or frozen baby brine shrimp, cyclops and microworms. Peaceful and shy, they are perfect companions for shrimp and other nano species but can be intimidated by larger, boisterous fish. Sensitive to water fluctuations, their main risks are ich and stress-related illness, prevented by a stable, mature, well-planted tank.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Chili Rasbora?
Low. A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.
How much maintenance does a Chili Rasbora need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Chili Rasbora need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Chili Rasbora a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Chili Rasbora live?
4–8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Chili Rasbora?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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