The phoenix rasbora is a small fish native to southern Borneo where it inhabits black water streams and rivers associated with ancient forest peat swamps. The phoenix rasbora grows to an adult size of .5 to .8 inches long. Adult males are more intensely colored than females, especially when in spawning condition. Females are noticeably rounder bodied and often slightly larger than males.
The phoenix rasbora should be maintained in an aquarium of 10 gallons or larger. It thrives in densely planted aquariums with gentle water flow, floating plants, and leaf litter (CS706). A soft, sandy substrate (CS6631) and driftwood pieces will round out the aquarium nicely.
The phoenix rasbora prefers a temperature of 68°F to 83°F, a pH of 4.0 to 6.5, and a hardness of 1 to 5°H.
The phoenix rasbora is typically a very peaceful and fish and suitable for a small community aquarium. It will fare especially well in a heavily planted aquarium. Good tank mates include dwarf shrimp, and other small fish such as pygmy cories, otocinclus, and ember and other small rasbora and tetra species.
Phoenix rasboras are micro predators and should be fed small meaty foods including live black worms, frozen cyclops (SF1001), frozen baby brine shrimp (SF1003), high quality flakes (AL165), and freeze dried CALA-fin (AL1802). For maximum color, growth, and health these fish will look their best when given probiotics (AL169) in addition to a balanced diet.