Rummynose Rasbora
Rummynose Rasbora (Sawbwa resplendens), also known as the Asian Rummynose or Naked Microrasbora, is one of the most elegant small fish in the freshwater hobby. Males are breathtaking — a translucent to silvery body with a brilliant crimson-red head and a vivid red or orange tail tip, resembling a lit match at both ends. The species is the sole member of the genus Sawbwa, endemic to Lake Inlé in Myanmar.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets make an excellent daily staple. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp or Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Tubifex Worms. Feed small amounts multiple times daily. This species benefits from particularly stable water conditions.
Native exclusively to Lake Inlé in Shan State, Myanmar, this fish inhabits clear, moderately hard, slightly alkaline water — quite different from most small rasboras. Lake Inlé is a unique ecosystem at altitude with cool, clear, well-oxygenated water. This fish requires stable, clean conditions and is more sensitive to fluctuations than many of its relatives.
Keep in groups of at least eight, preferably twelve or more. Larger groups produce noticeably richer color — the vivid red head and tail intensify when males compete. Completely peaceful and best kept with other small, non-aggressive species that enjoy similar water conditions.
The Rummynose Rasbora rewards the aquarist who gets the water right. In ideal conditions, the combination of glowing red head and tail against a translucent body is uniquely beautiful.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — Community |
| Typical Adult Size | 1.2 inches (3.0 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 8 minimum — groups of 12+ produce noticeably brighter color |
| Ideal Temp | 64–72°F (18–22°C) |
| Ideal pH | 7.0–8.0 |
| Ideal GH | 4–12 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 3–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Tubifex Worms |
| Origin | Lake Inlé and surrounding waters, Myanmar |
| Notes | Unique among rasboras — prefers cooler, harder, more alkaline water than most. Endemic to Lake Inlé, Myanmar. Males show brilliant red head and tail. Sensitive to water instability. |
