Harlequin Rasbora

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingEasy tank upkeep

  No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment5–8 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Skin conditions

The harlequin rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha) is a small cyprinid from the blackwater streams and peat swamps of Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and Sumatra in Southeast Asia. It reaches about 4–5 cm and lives 5–8 years. Its copper-orange body and distinctive black triangular patch make it one of the most recognisable community fish. Harlequins are peaceful shoalers best kept in groups of eight or more in a tank of 60 litres or larger. Recreate their soft, slightly acidic home at 22–27°C with a pH of 6.0–7.5, using dark substrate, driftwood and dense planting to bring out their colour and confidence. They occupy the middle water and school beautifully in an open aquascape. They are undemanding omnivores that eat flake, micro-pellets, and small frozen or live foods. Exceptionally gentle, they thrive alongside tetras, corydoras, gouramis and other calm species and never nip. Hardy and long-lived, their main risks are ich and fin rot from poor or unstable water, easily prevented by a mature, well-planted tank and consistent maintenance.

• How active is a Harlequin Rasbora?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Harlequin Rasbora need?

  Easy tank upkeep. No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• What tank size does a Harlequin Rasbora need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Harlequin Rasbora a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Harlequin Rasbora live?

  5–8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Harlequin 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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