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Boraras urophthalmoides (Least Rasborra) is available for pre-order – please confirm stock before ordering!
Boraras urophthalmoides
Common Name: Least Rasbora / Exclamation Point Rasbora
Origin: Southern & Central Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia
Size: Up to 1.6 cm
Tank Level: Mid to lower level
Care Level: Easy
Delicate, peaceful, and brilliantly petite, the Least Rasbora is a nano-sized wonder ideal for planted aquariums. Known for the bold black line running down its body that ends in a distinct spot at the tail, this fish mimics an exclamation point—hence its nickname.
Native to slow-moving waters, marshes, and swamps across Southeast Asia, this Boraras species thrives in soft, acidic, plant-rich environments. Despite its tiny size, it is full of personality and becomes most confident when kept in large shoals.
Highly recommended for aquascapers and nano tank enthusiasts looking for subtle color and natural shoaling behavior in a peaceful community setup.
Coloration: Transparent to amber-toned body with a strong black lateral stripe ending in a dark caudal spot. Reddish hue develops above the stripe, especially in males.
Markings: Black spot at base of dorsal fin enhances contrast. Males often display richer coloration, particularly when competing or breeding.
Shoaling Nature: Peaceful, shy, and best kept in groups of 10 or more to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.
Least Rasboras originate from vegetated swamps, marshes, and lowland ponds with clear, slow-flowing water. During seasonal rains, they spread into flooded forested areas. These environments are rich in microfauna and soft-leaved plants, ideal for egg-scattering species like this one.
Tank Size: 20 litres and up
Substrate: Fine gravel or sand
Aquascape: Heavily planted tanks with subdued lighting, leaf litter, and botanicals to mimic natural conditions
Filtration: Gentle to moderate flow
Lighting: Soft to moderate—subdued light encourages natural color development
Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
pH: 5.0–7.0
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
Flow: Low to moderate
Least Rasboras are micro-predators in the wild, feeding on tiny invertebrates and zooplankton.
Recommended Diet Includes:
Crushed flakes or nano pellets
Baby brine shrimp (Artemia)
Daphnia and microworms
Specialized nano or micro granules
A varied diet of live and frozen foods ensures vibrant color and better overall health. Feed small portions several times daily.
Temperament: Extremely peaceful and shy; will be easily intimidated by larger or boisterous tankmates.
Tankmate Suggestions:
Other Boraras or similarly small rasboras
Dwarf Corydoras (e.g., pygmaeus, habrosus)
Small shrimp species
Peaceful snails
Avoid aggressive or large fish that may view them as prey
Group Size: Best kept in shoals of 10–20 for optimal comfort, social behavior, and color display.
Breeding can occur in mature, densely planted tanks, though survival of fry is limited due to egg predation.
For controlled breeding:
Use a separate breeding tank with Java moss and fine-leaved plants
Cover bottom with mesh to protect eggs
Keep temperature near 28°C
Use a sponge filter for gentle filtration
Condition with live foods prior to spawning
Spawning Behavior: Continuous egg-scatterer with no parental care. Eggs hatch in ~48 hours; fry require microscopic food (infusoria) before transitioning to baby brine shrimp or microworms after 7–10 days.
Nano Size: One of the smallest freshwater fish in the trade
Shoaling Gem: Best seen in large groups
Plant-Friendly: Ideal for peaceful planted aquascapes
Beginner-Friendly: Hardy with basic care and soft water
Breeding Possible: With dedicated setup and conditioning
