Phoenix Rasbora (Boraras Merah)

Phoenix Rasbora (Boraras merah) — A Flame of Colour for the Nano Aquarium

The Phoenix Rasbora (Boraras merah) is a breathtaking nano fish from the blackwater peat swamps of Borneo, closely related to the beloved Chili Rasbora but with its own distinct and fiery character. Its body glows with a deep, burning red-orange suffused with iridescent highlights, punctuated by bold black markings along the lateral line and fins — a combination that earns it the name “Phoenix” and makes it one of the most striking micro fish in the freshwater hobby.

Fire in Miniature

At just 1.5–2 cm in length, the Phoenix Rasbora is among the smallest schooling fish available — but a school of 15 or more creates a spectacular, flickering display of deep red that seems to ignite the aquarium. In a blackwater setup with tannin-stained water, dark substrate, and lush planting, their colours reach their full, blazing intensity. Active and constantly in motion, they bring warmth and life to every corner of the nano aquascape.

Care Profile

• Scientific Name: Boraras merah
• Origin: Borneo (Kalimantan, Indonesia) — blackwater peat swamp habitats
• Size: Up to 1.5–2 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 Phoenix Rasbora thrives in heavily planted nano aquariums with dark substrates, driftwood, Indian almond leaves, and soft, acidic water that replicates its Bornean blackwater habitat. Their deep red colouration creates a stunning contrast against lush green planting and the warm amber tones of tannin-stained water.

Tiny, fiery, and utterly mesmerising — the Phoenix Rasbora is the nano fish that brings the warmth of a living flame to your planted aquarium.