Redtail Rasbora
Redtail Rasbora
Redtail Rasbora (Rasbora borapetensis) is named for its collection locality — Bung Boraphet, a large freshwater swamp and reservoir in Nakhon Sawan province, central Thailand. The silver body carries a vivid black lateral stripe running from the eye to the base of the caudal fin, and the caudal and lower fins are vivid red to orange-red — the 'redtail' that gives this species its common name.
Feeding & Care Tip: Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes and Hikari Micro Pellets make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Tubifex Worms, or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.
Native to Thailand and surrounding Indochina — rivers, streams, and floodplain waters with soft to moderately hard conditions. Borapetensis references Bung Boraphet, the type locality. An adaptable and hardy rasbora more tolerant of varied water conditions than many Southeast Asian species.
Keep in groups of at least 8. The vivid red tail and clean black lateral stripe are most vivid in well-conditioned fish. Active and fast-swimming — compatible with all peaceful community species of similar size.
A reliable and attractive schooling rasbora for the community aquarium — the vivid red tail creates a striking flash of color in motion.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — active schooling community |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 8 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 3–20 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–10 dKH |
| Staple Food | Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Tubifex Worms; Hikari Vibra Bites |
| Origin | Thailand and Indochina (type locality: Bung Boraphet, Nakhon Sawan, Thailand) |
| Notes | Borapetensis = from Bung Boraphet, Nakhon Sawan, Thailand. Bold black lateral stripe + vivid red-orange caudal and lower fins. More adaptable to varied water conditions than many rasboras. |
