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Compatible Fish for Shrimp Tanks: Rasboras

by Emily Dourm August 23, 2024 2 min read

Compatible Fish for Shrimp Tanks: Rasboras

The term 'Shrimp safe' isn’t always a guarantee. We prefer “compatible” when discussing fish and shrimp cohabitation. In nature, shrimp often serve as prey, so there’s always some risk. However, certain fish are less likely to disturb your shrimp. If you’re looking to enhance your shrimp tank without disrupting the peace, consider rasboras. Below are our top three micro-rasboras—Chili, Merah, and Exclamation Point—highlighting their peaceful nature, vibrant colors, and shrimp compatibility.

Chili Rasbora (Boraras brigittae)

Chili Rasbora

The Chili Rasbora, also known as the Mosquito Rasbora, is one of the most popular nano fish. Scientifically Boraras brigittae, these tiny fish reach about 1" in length and show off a stunning red coloration. Their peaceful temperament makes them ideal shrimp-tank mates.

To bring out their vibrant colors, keep Chili Rasboras in groups of 10 or more—larger shoals reduce stress and help their reds really pop.


Merah Rasbora (Boraras merah)

Merah Rasbora

The Merah Rasbora is a timid, under-1" fish with beautiful, though slightly softer, red hues compared to the Chili Rasbora. In the wild, they hail from slow-moving blackwater streams rich in leaf litter, wood, and rockwork.

A well-planted tank with a pH below 7, lots of hiding spots, and tannin-rich decorations will make them feel right at home.


Exclamation Point Rasbora (Boraras urophthalmoides)

Exclamation Point Rasbora

The Exclamation Point Rasbora sports vibrant orange-red hues and a bold black exclamation-point marking on its tail. It’s lively, appreciates open swimming spaces, and thrives in small shoals.


Feeding and Diet

Feeding Rasboras

Micro rasboras are omnivores. Offer daily high-quality flakes or micro-pellets (e.g. NorthFin) and supplement with live/frozen foods like baby brine shrimp or daphnia. Adding NorthFin Fry and NorthFin Veggie provides variety. Feed sparingly to keep water quality high.

 


Tank Parameters

  • pH: 7.2–7.5
  • GH: 8–16
  • KH: 4–7
  • TDS: 180–250
  • Temperature: 70–74 °F (21–23 °C)

Conclusion

Adding Chili, Merah, or Exclamation Point Rasboras to your shrimp tank brings vibrant color, peaceful activity, and easy care. With proper water parameters and a balanced diet, they’ll thrive alongside your shrimp—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned nano-fish enthusiast.

Emily Dourm
Emily Dourm


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