Species profile
Phoenix Rasbora
Boraras merah
Peaceful
Moderate care
30 L minimum aquarium
1.5–2 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 10
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Minute Bornean blackwater rasbora. Best kept in a mature, shaded nano aquarium with a large shoal and very small peaceful companions.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
4–7
GH
1–10 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 10
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.3
Extremely peaceful and easily intimidated or outcompeted. Keep a large shoal and avoid boisterous or predatory tankmates.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
30 L
Minimum footprint
45 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Boraras merah
Alternative names
Phoenix Rasbora, Rasbora merah
Native range
Western and southern Borneo.
Natural habitat
Peat-influenced forest streams and acidic blackwater. Use leaf litter, wood, dense/floating plants, subdued light and gentle filtration.
Diet & feeding
Micropredator feeding on minute insects, worms, crustaceans and zooplankton; provide tiny live/frozen and fine prepared foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are generally slimmer and more intensely red; females are fuller and less intensely coloured.
Breeding
Continuous egg-scatterer with no parental care; eggs are deposited among fine vegetation and adults may eat them.