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About the Harlequin Rasbora

The Harlequin Rasbora is one of the most popular and reliable freshwater schooling fish, loved for its shimmering copper-orange body, striking black triangular marking, and exceptionally peaceful temperament. Native to the slow-moving streams, peat swamps, and forest waterways of Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Sumatra, this elegant species has been a favourite among aquarists for decades.

Instantly recognisable by the bold black "harlequin" patch on the rear half of its body, the Harlequin Rasbora displays its best colours in well-planted aquariums with dark substrates, driftwood, and subdued lighting. When kept in large schools, they create a mesmerising display as they swim together through the aquarium.

Harlequin Rasboras are highly social fish and should always be kept in groups of at least 8–10. Their calm nature makes them perfect companions for Tetras, Corydoras, Gouramis, Celestial Pearl Danios, Kuhli Loaches, Otocinclus, Dwarf Cichlids, Rainbowfish, and freshwater shrimp.

A varied diet of premium nano pellets, quality flakes, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, microworms, cyclops, and other live or frozen foods will keep them healthy while enhancing their rich copper colouration.

Hardy, peaceful, and beautifully coloured, the Harlequin Rasbora is one of the best schooling fish for planted aquariums and freshwater community tanks.

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Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Trigonostigma heteromorpha

Common Name

Harlequin Rasbora

Origin

Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Sumatra

Adult Size

4–5 cm

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

60 Litres

Temperature

23–28°C

pH

5.5–7.5

Water Hardness

2–12 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner

Lifespan

5–8 Years

Suitable For

Planted aquariums, nano aquariums, blackwater aquariums, and peaceful community tanks

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many Harlequin Rasboras should I keep?

Harlequin Rasboras are schooling fish and should always be kept in groups of at least 8–10. Schools of 15 or more create an impressive natural display.

Are Harlequin Rasboras peaceful?

Yes. They are among the most peaceful freshwater fish and are excellent for community aquariums with other calm species.

What do Harlequin Rasboras eat?

They thrive on premium nano pellets, quality flakes, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, microworms, cyclops, and other small live or frozen foods.

Can Harlequin Rasboras live with shrimp?

Yes. They are generally safe with adult Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp, and other dwarf shrimp. Very small shrimplets may occasionally be eaten.

Why are my Harlequin Rasboras losing colour?

Stress, poor water quality, bright lighting, or being kept in small groups can cause their colours to fade. A planted aquarium with subdued lighting and excellent water quality will help them display their best colours.

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Common Mistakes

Keeping them in small schools

Harlequin Rasboras become shy and stressed when kept in groups smaller than eight.

Bright aquariums with little cover

Floating plants, driftwood, and dense planting encourage natural behaviour and richer colouration.

Poor water quality

Stable water parameters and regular water changes are essential for maintaining healthy, vibrant fish.

Feeding only dry foods

A varied diet that includes frozen and live foods enhances colour, immune health, and overall vitality.

Keeping them with aggressive fish

Choose peaceful tank mates that won't harass or outcompete these gentle schooling fish.