Chili Rasboras
Posted by Max Gandara on on 3rd Sep 2025
Chili Rasbora (Boraras brigittae) is one of the tiniest and most colorful freshwater fish available in the aquarium hobby. Despite their small size, these fish bring a vibrant splash of red to planted aquariums and are popular among aquarists who enjoy nano tanks and peaceful community setups. Originating from the slow-moving, blackwater streams and peat swamps of Borneo, Chili Rasboras are well-suited for natural-style aquascapes.
Appearance
Chili Rasboras are striking little fish, usually growing to only about 0.6–0.8 inches in length. Their body is slender and bright red, often accented by a bold black horizontal stripe running from the eye to the tail. Males typically display more vivid colors, especially during breeding or when trying to impress females. Their small size and brilliant coloration make them stand out beautifully in densely planted aquariums.
Behavior
These fish are peaceful and thrive in groups, making them excellent schooling fish. They feel more comfortable and display their best colors when kept in groups of at least 10 or more. Their calm nature makes them perfect for community tanks with other tiny, non-aggressive species. Watching a group of Chili Rasboras swim through plants can be mesmerizing.
Tank Requirements
Due to their small size, Chili Rasboras can live comfortably in nano aquariums as small as 5–10 gallons. However, a larger tank allows for a bigger school, which helps bring out more natural behavior. A heavily planted aquarium with driftwood, leaf litter, and subdued lighting is ideal to mimic their natural habitat. Dark substrates also help enhance their red coloration.
Water Parameters
Temperature: 72–82°F
pH: 4.0–7.0 (slightly acidic conditions are preferred)
Water Hardness: Very soft to moderately hard
Chili Rasboras thrive in clean, well-filtered water with stable parameters. Since they are small and sensitive, regular water changes are important to maintain good health.
Diet
In the wild, Chili Rasboras feed on tiny microorganisms, zooplankton, and insect larvae. In the aquarium, they readily accept high-quality micro-pellets, crushed flakes, and frozen or live foods such as daphnia, baby brine shrimp, and microworms. A varied diet ensures they display their best coloration and remain active.
Tank Mates
Because of their tiny size, tank mates must be chosen carefully. Suitable companions include other Boraras species, small rasboras, dwarf shrimp, and peaceful nano fish like Celestial Pearl Danios or Ember Tetras. Avoid housing them with larger or aggressive fish that may see them as food.
Breeding
Chili Rasboras are egg scatterers. In a well-planted tank, they may spawn naturally, but eggs and fry are often eaten by adults. To breed them successfully, a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops is recommended. The tiny fry require microscopic foods such as infusoria before transitioning to baby brine shrimp.
Conclusion
The Chili Rasbora is a stunning nano fish that brings both color and activity to small aquariums. Their peaceful nature, striking red hue, and schooling behavior make them a favorite among aquarists who love planted and aquascaped tanks. Though small and delicate, with the right care, a school of Chili Rasboras can transform a tank into a lively underwater display.
Would you like me to also make this one into the **plain text easy-to-copy version** like I did for the Indo Datnoid?