(C.) Hengali Rasbora (Rasbora hengeli)

Description

Hengali Rasbora (Rasbora hengeli)

📌 Basic Info

Scientific Name: Rasbora hengeli
Common Names: Hengali Rasbora, Hengel’s Rasbora, Red-Finned Rasbora
Family: Cyprinidae (Rasboras)
Order: Cypriniformes
Origin: Southeast Asia — rivers and streams of Borneo and Sumatra
Size: Up to 1.5 inches (4 cm) in captivity
Lifespan: 3 – 5 years
Tank Zone: Mid-level dweller; peaceful schooling fish

🌊 Water Parameters

TDS: 50 – 150 ppm
pH: 6.0 – 7.0
Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)
Hardness: 2 – 12 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

Body: Small, slender fish with silvery body, subtle iridescent sheen, and striking red fins; males often show brighter colors.
Behavior: Peaceful, active, and social; thrives in groups of 6 or more.
Swimming Style: Constant mid-level swimmer; lively and interactive in planted aquariums.
Unique Feature: Tiny size and bright red fins make it a popular ornamental fish for nano tanks.
Nature: Gentle, social, and suitable for community tanks with other small peaceful fish.

🍽️ Food

Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality micro flakes, finely crushed pellets, live/frozen foods (daphnia, microworms, baby brine shrimp)
Feeding: 1–2 times daily in small amounts
Tip: Feed small portions suitable for tiny mouths; ensure food reaches all individuals

🛠️ Maintenance

Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 L) for a small school
Filtration: Gentle filtration; well-oxygenated water
Decor: Heavily planted aquarium with floating plants, open swimming spaces, and smooth substrate
Lighting: Low to moderate; highlights red fins
Water Change: 20–25% weekly for stable water conditions

👥 Social Behavior

Minimum Group Size: 6 or more (shoaling species)
Tank Mates: Other small, peaceful fish — pygmy corydoras, chili rasboras, ember tetras
Avoid: Larger, aggressive, or predatory species

✅ Do’s

• Keep in groups to encourage natural shoaling behavior

• Provide planted areas and open swimming space

• Maintain stable water parameters and clean water

• Offer a varied micro-sized diet to enhance coloration

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep alone — will become stressed

• Don’t house with aggressive or large fish

• Don’t neglect water changes or water quality

⭐ Quick Tips

The Hengali Rasbora is a peaceful, tiny, and vibrantly colored schooling fish, ideal for nano aquariums and planted community tanks.
Best kept in groups of 6 or more, it displays active shoaling behavior and adds bright red highlights to the aquarium.
Perfect for aquarists seeking a miniature, hardy, and visually appealing freshwater fish.