Scissortail Rasbora

Scissortail Rasboras are peaceful, active schooling fish that add constant movement to the upper and middle levels of the aquarium. They are known for their sleek silver body and distinctive forked tail, which gives them their common name. They are a great choice for larger peaceful community tanks with plenty of open swimming room.

Care Level: Easy to moderate
Temperament: Peaceful, active, schooling
Maximum Size: Usually around 9–10 cm, though some sources note they can grow larger in ideal conditions.

Minimum Tank Size:
A tank of around 75–90 litres or more is a sensible minimum for a small group, but a longer aquarium is more important than a tall one because these fish are very active swimmers. Larger tanks are better for adult fish and for proper schooling behaviour.

How Many Should Be Kept Together?
Scissortail Rasboras should be kept in a group of at least 6 or more. They are a true shoaling species and tend to be more confident, settled, and visually impressive when kept in a proper group rather than singly or in pairs.

Ideal Water Temperature:
A good working range is around 22–26°C, with stable, clean water being very important. Some care guides allow a slightly wider range, but mid-20s tropical temperatures are a safe target for general home aquarium care.

Water Conditions:
They generally do best in clean, well-filtered water that is slightly acidic to neutral, and on the softer to moderately hard side. Good oxygenation and regular maintenance help keep them at their best.

Diet:
Scissortail Rasboras are omnivores and will accept a wide range of aquarium foods. A quality flake, micro pellet, or small granule can be used as a staple, with frozen or live foods added for variety and condition.

Compatibility:
They are well suited to peaceful community aquariums and usually mix well with other calm, similarly sized fish. Avoid aggressive species or tank mates that may outcompete or intimidate them.

Things to Be Cautious Of:
Because they are active schooling fish, they can become stressed or washed out in colour if kept in too small a group or in a tank without enough open swimming space. They are best in mature, stable aquariums with room to move.

Helpful Notes:
Scissortail Rasboras are ideal for aquarists wanting a larger, elegant schooling fish with constant movement. They look best in planted community tanks where the sides and back have cover, but the centre is left open for swimming.