Scissortail Rasbora
Scissortail Rasbora
Scissortail Rasbora (Rasbora trilineata) is one of the most active and largest commonly kept rasboras — named for the distinctive scissoring movement of the forked black-and-white caudal fin that flicks rhythmically as the fish swims. The silver body with three parallel dark lines (trilineata = three-lined) and the vivid tail movement create a fish with outstanding visual motion in the aquarium. At 6 inches, it needs more space than most rasboras.
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 Bloodworms, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp, or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.
Native to the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo — rivers and streams with moderate current and soft to moderately hard water. An active, fast-swimming schooling fish that covers a lot of ground in a large tank. The scissoring tail motion is constant and is used in communication and courtship displays between schoolmates.
Keep in groups of at least 8 in a tank at least 4 feet long — these are active swimmers that need horizontal swimming space. Compatible with medium-sized peaceful community fish. The constant tail scissoring of a large school is hypnotic and endlessly engaging to watch.
One of the most dynamic large rasboras available — the scissoring tail motion gives the school an animated quality unlike any other schooling fish. An excellent choice for a larger planted community aquarium.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — active large schooling fish |
| Typical Adult Size | 6.0 inches (15 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 8 minimum — 4-foot tank minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 3–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Vibra Bites |
| Origin | Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo |
| Notes | Trilineata = three-lined. Scissoring caudal fin motion distinctive and constant. Large species — 6 inches. Active swimmer needs 4-foot tank minimum. |
