Phoenix Rasbora
Phoenix Rasbora (Boraras merah) is one of the most vivid members of the Boraras genus. Males display an intense orange-red body with a distinctive broad black lateral band running the full length of the fish, creating a bold two-tone pattern that stands out clearly even in densely planted aquascapes. The species name merah means 'red' in Malay. At just 0.7 inches, it delivers remarkable visual impact for its size.
Feeding & Care Tip: Phoenix Rasboras have tiny mouths and require appropriately sized food. Start juveniles on Sera Micron Nature and transition to Sera Vipan Baby flakes as they grow. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp. Feed small amounts multiple times daily.
Native to the blackwater peat swamps of Borneo, the Phoenix Rasbora inhabits extremely soft, acidic, tannin-stained waters with minimal flow and heavy vegetation. Soft slightly acidic water, dark substrate, tannin additions, and gentle filtration reward you with the most intense coloration.
Keep in groups of at least eight, and ideally twelve or more. Males in a large group display almost constantly, keeping the orange-red tones at peak saturation. Best kept with other tiny peaceful species such as other nano rasboras, small shrimp, or micro Corydoras.
The Phoenix Rasbora is a standout in any nano planted aquarium. Its bold orange-red and black pattern is more graphically striking than many of its Boraras relatives, making it a natural focal point in smaller aquascapes.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — Nano Community |
| Typical Adult Size | 0.7 inches (1.8 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 8 minimum — groups of 12+ produce significantly brighter color |
| Ideal Temp | 68–82°F (20–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.0 |
| Ideal GH | 1–6 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 0–4 dKH |
| Staple Food | Sera Micron Nature (juveniles); Sera Vipan Baby (adults) |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Borneo |
| Notes | Tiny mouth — Sera Micron Nature for juveniles, Sera Vipan Baby for adults. Bold black lateral band and orange-red body. Soft tannin-stained water essential for best color. |
