Neon Red Rasbora
Neon Red Rasbora
Neon Red Rasbora (Sundadanio rubellus) is the vivid red member of the Sundadanio trio — the body displays an intense red to orange-red iridescence that, like its relatives, appears to glow in a properly set up blackwater aquarium. Rubellus means 'reddish' in Latin. Together with the Neon Blue Rasbora and Cardinal Rasbora, this species completes a trio of closely related Sundadanio nano rasboras from the peat swamp forests of Southeast Asia.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets (crushed or soaked briefly) and Sera Vipan Baby make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp and Hikari Frozen Daphnia. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.
Native to the blackwater peat swamp forests of Borneo and surrounding Southeast Asian islands — the same extreme habitat of all Sundadanio species. Extremely soft, acidic, tannin-stained water. Indian almond leaves, dark substrate, and subdued lighting produce the most vivid red coloration.
Keep in groups of at least 10 in a blackwater nano setup. The red iridescence is most vivid in soft, acidic water with tannins. Compatible with other nano species and dwarf shrimp. Can be mixed with Neon Blue and Cardinal Rasboras for a stunning multi-colored Sundadanio display.
All three Sundadanio species share identical care requirements — soft, acidic, tannin-stained water, nano tankmates only, and large groups for best display.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy — Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — nano blackwater community |
| Typical Adult Size | 1.0 inch (2.5 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 10 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 73–82°F (23–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 4.0–7.0 |
| Ideal GH | 0–10 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 0–5 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets (crushed/soaked); Sera Vipan Baby |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Frozen Daphnia |
| Origin | Blackwater peat swamp forests of Borneo and surrounding Southeast Asia |
| Notes | Rubellus = 'reddish'. Intense red iridescence — most vivid in tannin water. One of three Sundadanio species. Mix with Neon Blue and Cardinal. |
