Brittan’s rasbora
Introduction
Brittan’s rasbora (Kottelatia brittani) is a captivating freshwater fish cherished by aquarists for its slender body and graceful swimming. Native to Southeast Asia, this peaceful species thrives in well-planted aquariums and is ideal for hobbyists seeking an active, schooling fish. While generally hardy, maintaining stable water conditions is essential to ensure their well-being.
Care and Environment
Providing optimal care for Brittan’s rasbora involves replicating its natural habitat and meeting specific requirements:
What is the minimum tank size for Brittan’s rasbora?
A minimum tank size of 40 litres is recommended to house a small group comfortably.
What are the ideal water parameters for Brittan’s rasbora?
Maintain a temperature between 22–26°C, pH levels of 6.2–7.0, and water hardness of 3–15°dGH to replicate their natural environment.
How should the aquarium be set up for Brittan’s rasbora?
Use a soft, sandy substrate with dense vegetation and driftwood to provide hiding spots. Ensure open swimming areas and a gentle water flow to mimic their native streams.
Filtration should be efficient to maintain water quality, and lighting can be subdued to replicate their natural, shaded habitats. Brittan’s rasboras are omnivorous; a balanced diet of high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms will keep them healthy. Regular water changes and monitoring are crucial, as they are sensitive to poor water quality.
Origin and Habitat
Brittan’s rasbora is indigenous to Southeast Asia, specifically found in Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. They inhabit slow-moving, forest-shaded streams and tributaries with clear water. These environments are often rich in submerged vegetation and leaf litter, providing ample hiding spots and a natural diet of small invertebrates. The water in these habitats is typically soft and slightly acidic, with temperatures ranging from 23–26°C.
Temperament and Compatibility
Brittan’s rasboras are peaceful, schooling fish that thrive in groups of at least six. Keeping them in larger groups reduces stress and encourages natural behaviors.
Are Brittan’s rasboras suitable for community tanks?
Yes, they are ideal for community tanks with other small, non-aggressive species like tetras, small gouramis, and peaceful barbs.
What tank mates should be avoided with Brittan’s rasboras?
Avoid housing them with larger or aggressive fish that may intimidate or prey on them.
Providing a harmonious environment with compatible tank mates will ensure their well-being and allow them to display their natural schooling behavior.
Interesting Facts
Brittan’s rasbora is known for its subtle coloration, featuring a soft pinkish hue with a distinctive dark mark on the caudal peduncle. This species exhibits egg-scattering behavior during breeding, with no parental care provided to the eggs. In the wild, they are often found in blackwater environments, where tannins from decaying organic matter tint the water, creating a unique habitat.
Sources
All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources: