Blackline Rasbora

How To Care For Blackline Rasbora

The Blackline Rasbora (Rasbora borapetensis) is a striking and elegant species of freshwater fish, known for its distinct appearance and peaceful nature. Native to the tropical waters of Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Malaysia, this species is a popular choice for aquarists looking to add a dash of contrast and activity to their aquarium.

Typically growing to around 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6 cm) in length, the Blackline Rasbora features a slender and streamlined body. Its most defining characteristic is a prominent, dark black horizontal stripe that runs along the length of its body, starting from the head and extending to the tail. This black line contrasts beautifully with the translucent or pale-colored body, creating a striking visual effect. The Blackline Rasbora's fins are generally clear with slight hints of red, adding subtle color to its overall appearance.

As a peaceful and social fish, the Blackline Rasbora thrives in schools. It is best kept in groups of at least 6 to 8 individuals to encourage its natural schooling behavior and reduce stress. These fish are non-aggressive and make excellent tank mates for other small, peaceful species, including small tetras, microrasboras, and other Danios. Due to their calm temperament, they can coexist with a variety of other community tank species as long as the tank mates are not too large or territorial.

The Blackline Rasbora prefers slightly acidic to neutral water with a temperature range between 75°F and 82°F (24°C to 28°C) and a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. They are adaptable but do best in aquariums with stable water parameters and clean, well-filtered water. Regular water changes are crucial to maintaining their health, as they are sensitive to poor water quality. A planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and open swimming space is ideal for this species.

As omnivores, Blackline Rasboras enjoy a varied diet consisting of high-quality flake foods, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They are small feeders but have hearty appetites, and providing a balanced diet will help maintain their vibrant coloration and overall health.

With their peaceful nature, social behavior, and striking appearance, Blackline Rasboras are an excellent choice for freshwater aquariums. They are particularly well-suited for community tanks, where their schooling behavior and elegant colors can add a sense of motion and beauty to the setup.

With proper care, including stable water conditions, a balanced diet, and a peaceful tank environment, the Blackline Rasbora can live for 3 to 5 years or longer in captivity. Its distinctive coloration, calm demeanor, and active nature make it a delightful and eye-catching addition to any aquarium.