Least Rasbora

About

The least rasbora (Boraras urophthalmoides) is one of the smaller members of an already diminutive genus, rarely exceeding an inch and a half in length. Its body carries a long, dark lateral stripe running from nose to tail, punctuated by a distinct round blotch on the caudal peduncle. A pattern that has earned it the trade name 'exclamation-point rasbora' in some circles. Some individuals, depending on collection locality, develop a warm reddish or orange tint along the upper flank that can cause confusion with its close relative B. brigittae, though the unbroken stripe and smaller size help tell them apart. In the wild, this species inhabits slow or still waters across parts of Indochina. Marshes, peat bogs, and heavily planted ponds where zooplankton hide among fine-leaved vegetation. In the aquarium it behaves much the same way: it gravitates toward planted areas and tends to stay in the mid to lower water column. It is thoroughly peaceful but its small size and shy nature mean it can easily be outcompeted or stressed in a busy community tank. It does far better in a species setup or alongside other miniature fish and small shrimp. Groups of eight or more bring out noticeably bolder behavior, and males will display their best coloration when competing for female attention. Intermediate care experience is recommended.