Species profile
Lambchop Rasbora
Trigonostigma espei
Peaceful
Easy care
54 L minimum aquarium
2.5–3 cm adult size
Mid–top
Minimum group: 10
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Peaceful shoaling rasbora for planted, gently filtered aquaria. Best colour and behaviour are shown in a sizeable group.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
5.5–7
GH
Not yet documented
KH
Up to 10 dKH
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 10
Tank zone
Mid–top
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.4
Non-territorial schooling fish; avoid aggressive or very boisterous tankmates.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
54 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Trigonostigma espei
Alternative names
Lambchop Rasbora, Copper Harlequin, Espe's Rasbora
Native range
Thailand and Cambodia in the Mekong-associated region.
Natural habitat
Vegetated marshes, pools and slow/still forest waters, often with leaf litter and tannins.
Diet & feeding
Small insectivore/omnivore; offer fine prepared foods and small frozen/live invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are typically fuller-bodied; males tend to be slimmer and more intensely coloured.
Breeding
Characteristic Trigonostigma leaf-spawner; eggs are attached to the underside of broad leaves and receive no parental care.