As an aquarist, I have always adored the dazzling sight of a school of harlequin rasboras. These hardy, colorful schooling fish resembles other species, including the closely-related lambchop rasbora, and it is marked by the black triangular shape that lines its reddish-pink body.
Harlequin rasboras are very forgiving to beginning fishkeepers, and they can thrive in surprisingly poor waters. Still, it is important for aquarists to know the facts about harlequin rasboras before buying them.
Adult Size
The harlequin rasbora is a tiny gem; adults are usually about 1.5 inches in length.
Tank Size
Despite its small size, the harlequin rasbora needs a large tank. They are active swimmers and need to live in groups, so 20-gallon tanks are the minimum size for this species.
Social Behavior
Harlequin rasboras are shoaling fish. Keep them in groups of 8 or more individuals-- the more, the merrier.
Tank Mates
Harlequin rasboras are extremely peaceful and may be bullied by larger tankmates. Do not co-house them with large or predatory fish. Large cichlids and anabantids are particularly likely to eat harlequin rasboras.
Life Span
A harlequin rasbora will live to be about four years old if it is kept in a proper environment.
Diet
Harlequin rasboras are omnivores and usually accept fine flake food. Frozen treats like bloodworm and brine shrimp are acceptable, healthy treats.
Breeding
Female harlequin rasboras are slightly larger than males and lay eggs under broad leaves. Most pet-store harlqeuin rasboras are commercially bred.
Water Parameters
Keep harlequin rasboras at a pH between 5.5-7. Nitrate levels should be below 25 ppm, ammonia levels should be nearly undetectable. This tiny fish is relatively tolerant of fluctuating water parameters.
Temperature
Harlequin rasboras are a tropical species; they require a heater or a warm ambient temperature. A target range of 72-80 degrees is ideal.
Variations
There are no domesticated varieties of harlequin rasbora.
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