白氏泰波鱼 · Mosquito Rasbora

Overview

The red coloration of Boraras brigittae is most rewarding in a settled group with subdued surroundings. This miniature, timid fish belongs in a carefully planned small-fish community or species aquarium, where feeding competition and abrupt water changes are minimized.

Distribution & habitat

The known range points to southwestern Borneo, although locality records are sparse. Peat-swamp forest waters provide shaded pools and channels with submerged woody debris and leaves. Decaying vegetation stains the exceptionally soft, acidic water.

Aquarium setup

Use established biological filtration with a gentle return, dense planting and overhead shade. Roots, sand and leaf litter can recreate useful shelter; the litter also supports microscopic life for fry. Leave swimming room between cover, since courting males briefly defend small areas.

Diet & feeding

Its natural diet is thought to comprise tiny animal prey. Supply appropriately sized prepared particles along with small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and water fleas. Variety supports condition and color better than an exclusively dry menu.

Behaviour & compatibility

Keep eight to ten or more together. A settled group shows more confident behavior and male displays. Other miniature peaceful fishes and small freshwater shrimp can work in a planted aquarium, whereas larger or pushier companions undermine its suitability for community keeping.

Sexual dimorphism

Males are usually more vividly colored, especially dominant individuals. Mature females tend to be slightly larger and noticeably rounder through the abdomen.

Breeding

Small batches of eggs can be scattered repeatedly without parental care. For greater survival, move conditioned pairs gradually into a dim separate aquarium containing fine vegetation and an egg barrier. Remove them within about two days, before the earliest young become vulnerable. Eggs may hatch around the second day, followed by roughly a day of yolk feeding. Begin with microscopic live food, then introduce newly hatched brine shrimp or microworms when the fry can take them, often after seven to ten days. Early water changes should be gentle and limited.

Notes

Trade lots may contain Boraras urophthalmoides, which has a distinct round caudal-peduncle blotch and a longer stripe. Color-pattern overlap with Boraras merah has also prompted taxonomic debate; red intensity alone is not a reliable identification test.