Red Cherry Rasbora Care Guide
Rasbora lacrimula · Freshwater Fish
What Red Cherry Rasbora look like
Rasbora lacrimula, commonly known as the Red Cherry Rasbora, exhibits a slender, fusiform body that reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). The species is characterized by its vibrant cherry-red coloration, which serves as a distinguishing feature among its congeners. The fish possesses a small, terminal mouth equipped with fine, pharyngeal teeth adapted for an omnivorous diet. Notably, the lateral line is well-defined, running along the length of the body, which aids in detecting water movements. The dorsal fin is moderately sized and set far back on the body, while the anal fin is elongated, contributing to its agile swimming capabilities. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, with females generally appearing fuller-bodied, especially when gravid, while males exhibit more intense coloration during breeding periods. Defensive adaptations include schooling behavior, which provides safety in numbers, and a streamlined body shape that allows for quick evasive maneuvers.
Behavior & temperament
Red Cherry Rasboras are social fish that thrive in groups, exhibiting a strong tendency to form schools in the mid-water column. They are primarily pelagic, often seen darting about in the upper layers of the water, which aids in their foraging strategies. Their breeding behavior is characterized as egg scatterers, where females release eggs among vegetation, providing some cover for the developing fry. The species is generally peaceful and exhibits low aggression levels, making them suitable for community tanks. They display a hierarchy within their schools, with more dominant individuals often leading the group during foraging activities, yet they remain non-territorial and coexist harmoniously with other species.
Diet & feeding
In the wild, Red Cherry Rasboras are omnivorous, feeding on a varied diet that includes small invertebrates, plant matter, and detritus. In captivity, they thrive on high-quality flake foods supplemented with live or frozen foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp, as well as finely chopped vegetables to ensure a balanced diet.
Behind the name
Rasbora (from the Malay word for fish); lacrimula (from Latin, meaning 'little tear', possibly referring to the shape of the fish or its lateral line).
Plan your tank
Check the numbers before you buy: tank volume, a stocking plan, cycle progress, water changes, and your ongoing care routine.
Keeping Red Cherry Rasbora?
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