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Care guide · Freshwater · fish

Kubotai Rasbora

Microdevario kubotai

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The Kubotai Rasbora (Microdevario kubotai), also called the Green Neon Rasbora, is a tiny, peaceful shoaling fish from Thailand and adjacent drainages in Myanmar. Its green-gold body and bright lateral stripe stand out in a well-planted group. Despite its small size, it is not suited to a newly set-up aquarium: it needs mature, stable and oxygen-rich water. Keep at least eight to ten together and choose only similarly small, calm tankmates. Observe the school after introduction and feed small portions that are fully eaten.

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At a glance

Temperature
20–27 °C
pH
6.0–7.0
GH
1–10 °dGH
Aquarium length
At least 60 cm
Minimum aquarium volume
At least 54 L
Adult size
Up to 2 cm
Group size
At least 8–10 individuals
Temperament
Peaceful

About this species

The accepted name is Microdevario kubotai; Microrasbora kubotai is an older combination. Adults remain around 2 cm standard length. The slender body is greenish to yellow with a bright golden lateral stripe and translucent dorsal and anal fins. Colour varies with light, mood and conditions, so do not identify a fish by colour alone. Females are usually deeper-bodied, while males are often more compact and intensely coloured.

Natural habitat

The species is known from northwestern Thailand and tributaries of the Salween drainage in southern Myanmar. It inhabits clear, well-oxygenated headwaters and small tributaries with calm to moderate flow. Substrates include sand, gravel, stones and rocks, with leaf litter, roots and some aquatic plants. An aquarium with cover around the margins and open swimming space reflects these features.

Aquarium and layout

Seriously Fish gives a minimum base size of 60 × 30 cm and about 54 litres. This is a minimum for the small shoaling fish; also consider group size, filtration and water stability. Use a darker substrate, plants, wood and stones. Moderate flow and good oxygenation suit its natural habitat. Add the fish only to a biologically mature aquarium. Regular water changes and maintenance are essential.

Water conditions

The species-specific range from Seriously Fish is 20–27°C, pH 6.0–7.0 and GH 1–10 dGH. Do not try to pursue every extreme at once. A stable value within the suitable range matters more than rapid adjustments. Match conditions to the stock’s origin and the water in which the fish have been kept. Avoid sharp changes in pH, temperature or mineral content.

Behaviour and group size

Kubotai Rasboras are peaceful, active and social. Keep at least 8–10; larger groups show more natural shoaling behaviour. They are best with other very small species that share similar water requirements. Seriously Fish lists Boraras naevus as a possible companion. Even then, provide enough space, stable water and complete groups. Avoid larger fish that may view these miniature rasboras as food.

Feeding

In nature the species feeds on small invertebrates, algae and zooplankton. It accepts dry food in aquaria when particles are small enough, but offer mainly fine live or frozen foods such as Daphnia and Artemia. Crumble flakes if needed. Feed small portions and check that every fish can reach food; competition from larger or faster tankmates can disadvantage this miniature fish.

Breeding

Kubotai Rasboras scatter eggs among plants and provide no parental care. A mature, densely planted aquarium may occasionally produce fry, but adults eat eggs and larvae. Deliberate breeding requires keeping eggs out of reach of the parents. The larvae are extremely small and initially need very fine foods, so raising them requires preparation and suitable starter food.

Sources & review

This care guide draws on several specialist sources and was last checked on .

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