Galaxy Rasbora (Boraras brigittae): The Dazzling Gem of Freshwater Aquariums

The Galaxy Rasbora (Boraras brigittae), also known as the Celestial Pearl Danio, is a captivating and small freshwater fish renowned for its stunning coloration and lively behavior. With its tiny size and vibrant patterns, the Galaxy Rasbora is a prized addition to nano aquariums and small community tanks. Its remarkable appearance and peaceful nature make it a favorite among aquarists.

Natural Habitat of the Galaxy Rasbora

The Galaxy Rasbora is native to the slow-moving rivers, streams, and swampy areas of Southeast Asia, particularly in parts of Thailand and Malaysia. In the wild, they inhabit densely vegetated waters with a slightly acidic to neutral pH and warm temperatures. These environments provide the fish with abundant cover and a diverse diet of small invertebrates and plant matter.

The Galaxy Rasbora's natural habitat is characterized by clear water with abundant plant life, which offers both food sources and hiding places. Their vibrant colors and patterns provide camouflage among the aquatic vegetation and help them blend into their surroundings.

Setting Up the Perfect Aquarium for Galaxy Rasbora

Galaxy Rasboras are well-suited for smaller aquariums and can thrive in a variety of setups. Their small size and peaceful demeanor make them ideal for nano tanks or community aquariums with other small, non-aggressive fish.

1. Tank Size and Setup

Galaxy Rasboras typically grow to about 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) in length. Due to their small size, they can be kept in relatively small tanks, but a larger tank is preferable for maintaining stable water conditions and providing ample swimming space. A minimum tank size of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group of Galaxy Rasboras.

The tank should be well-planted with a mix of live or artificial plants, as well as rocks and driftwood to create hiding spots. They enjoy having places to explore and seek refuge. A gentle water flow and plenty of open swimming space will help mimic their natural habitat.

2. Water Conditions

Maintaining the right water conditions is crucial for the health and well-being of Galaxy Rasboras. They are sensitive to poor water quality and require stable, clean conditions to thrive.

• Water Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Water Hardness: 2-12 dGH

A good filtration system is necessary to keep the water clean and free of toxins. A sponge filter or a small hang-on-back filter is usually sufficient for these small fish. Regular water changes are important to maintain water quality and prevent the buildup of harmful substances.

Galaxy Rasboras prefer slightly acidic to neutral water and benefit from regular water changes that mimic their natural habitat. Providing a gentle water flow can help maintain oxygen levels and create a more natural environment.

3. Feeding Your Galaxy Rasbora

In the wild, Galaxy Rasboras feed on small invertebrates, insects, and plant matter. In captivity, a balanced diet will help maintain their health and vibrant colors.

• Staple Diet: High-quality micro-pellets or flakes designed for small fish.
• Supplemental Foods: Offer live or frozen foods such as micro worms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Finely crushed algae wafers or spirulina-based foods can also be included to provide plant-based nutrition.

Feed Galaxy Rasboras small amounts of food 2-3 times a day, ensuring that they consume the food within a few minutes. Overfeeding should be avoided to prevent water quality issues and maintain their health.

4. Behavior and Social Structure

Galaxy Rasboras are peaceful and social fish that thrive in schools. They are best kept in groups of at least six to eight individuals, as they are schooling fish and feel more secure in the company of their own kind. In a group, they display natural schooling behavior and are more active and engaging.

They are generally non-aggressive and can coexist with other small, peaceful species. Their small size and gentle nature make them suitable for community tanks with other non-aggressive fish.

5. Compatible Tank Mates

Galaxy Rasboras are compatible with a variety of other small, peaceful fish. When choosing tank mates, consider species that are similarly peaceful and can coexist well with Galaxy Rasboras.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Small schooling fish (such as Neon Tetras, Ember Tetras, or Endler’s Livebearers)
• Peaceful community fish (such as Microdevario kubotai or Corydoras Catfish)
• Small shrimp (such as Cherry Shrimp or Amano Shrimp)

Avoid keeping Galaxy Rasboras with larger or aggressive species, as they may become stressed or injured. Additionally, be cautious with fin-nipping species that might harass the Rasboras.

6. Breeding Galaxy Rasbora

Breeding Galaxy Rasboras in captivity is relatively straightforward, though it can be challenging to achieve consistent results. They are egg-scatterers, meaning they lay eggs on the substrate or among plants.

To encourage breeding, provide a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and stable water conditions. Breeding pairs or groups can be placed in a separate breeding tank to prevent the eggs and fry from being eaten by other tank mates. The eggs will hatch in about 2-3 days, and the fry will become free-swimming shortly after. Provide the fry with small, finely crushed foods or specially formulated fry food to ensure their proper growth and development.

Caring for Galaxy Rasboras: What to Expect

Caring for Galaxy Rasboras is relatively easy, making them an excellent choice for beginners. They are hardy and adaptable but require regular care and maintenance to ensure their health and well-being.

Galaxy Rasboras are known for their striking appearance and schooling behavior, adding dynamic movement and color to any aquarium. Their peaceful nature and attractive colors make them a delightful addition to community tanks.

Conclusion

The Galaxy Rasbora (Boraras brigittae) is a dazzling and hardy freshwater fish that adds beauty and interest to any aquarium. With its vibrant colors, small size, and lively behavior, it is a favorite among aquarists. Easy to care for and compatible with many other species, the Galaxy Rasbora is an excellent choice for a wide range of freshwater setups.

If you’re looking for a small, colorful, and engaging fish for your aquarium, the Galaxy Rasbora offers a delightful and rewarding experience. With proper care and attention, these enchanting fish can thrive and bring joy to your aquatic setup.