Maculata Rasbora

Temp- 22-27

PH- 6-7.5

Diet- Omnivore

Max Size- 2cm

The Dwarf Spotted Rasbora is found in South East Asia on the Malay Peninsula in southern Thailand, east Sumatra, Singapore, and Bintan Island in the province of Riau Islands, Indonesia. Slow-flowing black water forest streams and rivers linked to peat swamps as well as ponds and ditches are populated in nature by these species. They can be found hiding among fallen leaves and branches where soft and acidic water is present. The canopies in the forest also often keep it heavily shaded. These fish are known as micropredators and swim in schools, feeding on small insects, worms, and zooplankton. 

Dwarf Spotted Rasbora are colourful fish as well as friendly and peaceful. Their own type of companionship is absolutely essential to their well-being, so they must be kept in groups of at least 8 to 10. Since they are so gentle they they are easily frightened, so they can only be kept with other fish of similar size and nature. A lot of fish, particularly those that are much larger or highly rambunctious, can be scary companions for the tiny fish. Rather select tankmates with similar size and personality and not overly hyper. 

These fish are very reactive to their environment so recommended for more seasoned aquarists. They need very good water conditions to thrive, and most importantly consistent water quality. A school can be housed in a 20 litre tank just fine because of its small size, but a bit bigger aquarium is recommended and is easier to maintain. They will best show their colours in a carefully aquascaped tank. Provide plenty of plants for them to hide in and some floating plants to help subdue the light and a dynamic display will be rewarded for you. 

The Maculata Rasbora require a diverse diet in the Aquarium. Flake or tablet foods with natural pigment enhancers are of considerable benefit to this fish. Some good ingredients to look for are those which contain spirulina algae and carotenoids in commercial foods. They can handle only the smallest live foods, such as daphnia or baby brine. These fish will do their best fed several times a day but only offer what they can eat in 3 minutes or less at each feeding. Provide what they can eat in about 5 minutes if you only feed once a day. 

These fish need consistent water conditions and the tank water should be replaced at least 25 to 50% regularly. When the tank is heavily stocked it should be replaced every week or every other week by 25 to 50%. During water adjustments the substrate should also be vacuumed to prevent waste accumulation.