AquaGuide

Harlequin Rasbora Care Guide

Trichogaster heteromorpha

Key Takeaways

  • Harlequin Rasbora needs at least 10 gallons, with 20 gallons preferred.
  • Keep water between 22-28°C and pH 6-7.5.
  • Keep a group of at least 6 to reduce stress.

Quick Facts

Difficulty: beginner
Min Tank: 10 gallons
Size: 5 cm
Group: 6+
Temperature: 22-28°C
pH: 6-7.5
Temperament: peaceful
Swimming: middle
Diet: omnivore
Lifespan: 5-8 years

Care Overview

Harlequin rasboras are peaceful schooling fish with a distinctive black triangle marking. They are hardy and easy to care for.

Ideal Tank Setup

A 10+ gallon planted tank with open swimming areas. Keep in groups of 6 or more. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water.

Diet and Feeding

Omnivores that eat small flake food, micro pellets, and small live or frozen foods. Feed 2 times daily.

Best Tank Mates

  • Other rasboras
  • Tetras
  • Corydoras
  • Gouramis
  • Shrimp

Fish to Avoid

  • Large aggressive fish
  • Fin-nipping fish

Common Problems

  • Stress from small groups

Common Beginner Mistakes

  • Using a tank smaller than 10 gallons, which makes water quality harder to keep stable.
  • Ignoring adult size, group size, or temperament when choosing tank mates.
  • Changing too much water or filter media at once before checking ammonia and nitrite.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many harlequin rasboras should I keep?

At least 6, but 8-10 is better. They are schooling fish and need company to feel secure.

Related Tools

Sources and Review Process

  • Freshwater aquarium husbandry references for water quality, tank size, and stocking guidance.
  • Species profiles and compatibility rules maintained in the TankWise data set.
  • Aquarium health guidance is educational and should not replace an aquatic veterinarian for severe symptoms.

More Harlequin Rasbora Guides