About Phoenix Rasbora

The Phoenix Rasbora is a tiny, exquisite fish that rivals the Chili Rasbora in beauty. Males display a brilliant ruby red coloration with a dark lateral stripe, while females are more subdued but still attractive. Native to the peat swamp forests of Indonesia, these fish require soft, acidic water to show their best colors. At under 1 inch, they are perfect for nano tanks and shrimp aquariums, where their small size and peaceful nature make them ideal inhabitants.

Care Guide

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Phoenix Rasboras thrive in heavily planted nano tanks that mimic their natural peat swamp habitat. They need pristine water conditions.

Essential Setup:

  • Sponge filter (gentle flow essential)
  • Dark substrate (critical for color)
  • Dim lighting
  • Dense planting (Java Moss, Cryptocoryne, floating plants)
  • Leaf litter or driftwood (releases tannins)
  • Very gentle water flow
  • Blackwater conditions preferred

Water Quality

  • Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
  • pH: 4.0-6.5 (soft, acidic required)
  • Water Hardness: Very soft (0-5 dGH)
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <10 ppm

Soft, acidic water is essential for Phoenix Rasboras. They will not show color or thrive in hard, alkaline conditions.

Feeding

Tiny mouths require appropriately small food:

  • Powdered or crushed flake food
  • Infusoria
  • Vinegar eels
  • Baby brine shrimp
  • Micro pellets
  • Biofilm and algae in tank

Feeding Schedule: Tiny amounts 3 times daily.

Behavior & Compatibility

Extremely peaceful nano fish suitable only with:

  • Other micro fish (Chili Rasboras, Green Neons)
  • Pygmy Corydoras
  • Shrimp (Cherry, Bee, Amano)
  • Snails

Avoid:

  • Any fish large enough to eat them (which is almost everything)
  • Strong currents
  • Aggressive tank mates

Sexual Dimorphism

Males: Intense ruby red color, more slender Females: Duller, orange-brown, fuller-bodied

Tips for Success

  • Perfect for 5-10 gallon nano tanks
  • Keep in groups of 10-15 minimum
  • Soft, acidic, blackwater conditions essential
  • Will not color up in hard water
  • Feed tiny foods frequently
  • Combine with Chili Rasboras for stunning display
  • Maintain pristine water quality

Compatible Tank Mates

🐠 Chili Rasbora 🐠 Green Neon Tetra
🐠 Pygmy Corydoras
🐠 Cherry Shrimp
🐠 Dwarf Shrimp