Dwarf Spotted Rasbora (Boraras Maculata)

Dwarf Spotted Rasbora (Boraras maculata) — A Tiny Gem for the Nano Aquarium

The Dwarf Spotted Rasbora (Boraras maculata) is one of the smallest and most charming nano fish in the freshwater hobby. Native to the soft, acidic blackwater streams and peat swamps of Southeast Asia, this petite rasbora captivates with its warm orange-red body adorned with distinctive black spots — a delicate, jewel-like pattern that shines beautifully in a well-planted nano aquarium.

Small Fish, Big Personality

At just 2–2.5 cm in length, the Dwarf Spotted Rasbora is one of the tiniest schooling fish available in the hobby — but a school of 15 or more creates a wonderfully lively and colourful display. Their constant, curious movement and warm colouration bring energy and life to even the smallest aquascape. In a blackwater setup with tannin-stained water and dark substrate, their colours intensify to a rich, glowing orange-red that is truly stunning.

Care Profile

• Scientific Name: Boraras maculata
• Origin: Southeast Asia — Malaysia, Thailand, Sumatra, Singapore; blackwater streams and peat swamps
• Size: Up to 2–2.5 cm
• Temperament: Peaceful; best kept in schools of 15 or more for natural schooling behaviour and reduced stress
• Diet: Micro-predator — accepts micro pellets, baby brine shrimp, micro worms, and finely crushed flake food
• Water Temperature: 22–28°C
• pH: 4.0–7.0 (thrives in soft, acidic, tannin-rich water; colour is most vivid in blackwater conditions)
• Tank Size: Suitable from 20L upward; ideal for nano tanks of 30–60L
• Note: Due to their tiny size, avoid keeping with any fish large enough to eat them — best kept as a species tank or with other nano fish and dwarf shrimp

Aquascape Compatibility

Plant-safe and an excellent companion for dwarf shrimp such as Neocaridina and Caridina species. The Dwarf Spotted Rasbora thrives in heavily planted nano aquariums with dark substrates, driftwood, Indian almond leaves, and soft, acidic water that replicates its Southeast Asian blackwater habitat. Their warm spotted colouration creates a beautiful contrast against lush green planting and tannin-stained water.

Tiny, spotted, and full of charm — the Dwarf Spotted Rasbora is the nano fish that proves the most beautiful things truly do come in the smallest packages.