Pygmy Spotted Rasbora (Boraras maculatus)
The Pygmy Spotted Rasbora is one of the smallest and most colorful freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. Featuring a vibrant reddish-orange body accented by distinctive black spots along its sides, this tiny schooling fish brings incredible color and activity to nano aquariums and planted aquascapes. Its peaceful nature and diminutive size make it an excellent choice for shrimp tanks and tranquil community aquariums.
Native to the blackwater streams, peat swamps, and slow-moving forest waterways of Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, Pygmy Spotted Rasboras thrive in soft, slightly acidic water with dense vegetation, leaf litter, and subdued lighting. In the aquarium, they appreciate heavily planted layouts with floating plants, driftwood, and open swimming areas. They are highly social and should always be kept in schools of at least eight to ten individuals, with larger groups displaying the most natural behavior and vibrant coloration.
Pygmy Spotted Rasboras are micro-predatory omnivores that readily accept crushed flakes, micro pellets, frozen Cyclops, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, microworms, and other tiny live or frozen foods. Feeding a varied diet helps maintain their brilliant colors and supports healthy growth.
Their exceptionally peaceful temperament makes them ideal companions for other nano fish such as Chili Rasboras, Celestial Pearl Danios, Pygmy Corydoras, Otocinclus, and peaceful shrimp species. Their small size makes them best suited for aquariums free of larger or aggressive fish.
Scientific Name: Boraras maculatus
Common Name: Pygmy Spotted Rasbora, Dwarf Spotted Rasbora
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Omnivore
Adult Size: Up to 1 Inch
Minimum Tank Size: 5 Gallons (10+ Gallons Recommended for Schools)
Origin: Malaysia, Singapore & Indonesia
If you're looking for a tiny, colorful, and peaceful schooling fish, the Pygmy Spotted Rasbora is an exceptional choice. Its vibrant red coloration, charming black spots, and active schooling behavior make it a standout addition to nano aquariums and beautifully planted freshwater aquascapes.
