Rasbora – Scissortail

Ten bright Scissortail Rasboras swimming in an aquarium

Care Guide

About Rasboras

Scissortail rasbora fish are a beautiful and peaceful addition to any aquarium. Also known as Rasbora trilineata, are a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts due to their vibrant colors and peaceful nature. Native to Southeast Asia, these small fish are a great addition to any community tank. Visit our Tropical Fish Page to see what fish are in stock at the store.

Characteristics of the Scissortail

Scissortail rasboras are known for their striking appearance. They have a silver body with a black horizontal stripe running along their side. The most distinctive feature is their long, forked tail, which resembles a pair of scissors, hence their name. These fish can grow up to 4 inches in length and have a lifespan of around 5 years.

Breeding scissortail rasboras can be challenging, as they require specific conditions and cues to spawn. Providing a separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water and plenty of plants is essential. The female will scatter her eggs among the plants, and the male will fertilize them. Once the eggs hatch, it is important to remove the parents to prevent them from eating the fry. For even more info visit the Wikipedia page.

Care and Feeding

Scissortail rasboras prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The water temperature should be maintained between 75 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to provide a well-filtered tank with plenty of hiding spots and plants to mimic their natural habitat.

Scissortail rasboras are omnivorous and will readily accept a variety of foods. Their diet should consist of high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Feeding them a varied diet will help maintain their vibrant colors and overall health.

Compatibility

The Scissortail rasbora is a peaceful and social fish that thrives in community tanks. They are shoaling fish, which means they prefer to live in groups of at least six individuals. Keeping them in smaller groups can lead to stress and aggression. They are compatible with other peaceful fish species such as Tetras, Gouramis, and Corydoras catfish.