The Emerald Eye Rasbora (Rasbora cephalotaenia) is a small, elegant freshwater fish prized for its vivid emerald-green eyes and sleek, streamlined body. At just 1.5cm, these juveniles are delicate yet active swimmers that add subtle sparkle and peaceful movement to nano tanks and planted community aquariums. Native to Southeast Asia, especially Malaysia and Sumatra, the Emerald Eye Rasbora prefers calm waters rich in vegetation, making it a favorite among aquarists who enjoy keeping small schooling fish in well-maintained environments.

🐟 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Rasbora cephalotaenia

• Common Names: Emerald Eye Rasbora

• Size: 1.5cm (juvenile; adults up to 3–4cm)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, schooling

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

• Origin: Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Sumatra)

• Best kept in groups of 8 or more

🌊 Water Conditions

Emerald Eye Rasboras thrive in soft, slightly acidic water mimicking their natural habitats:

• Temperature: 22–27°C (72–81°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.0

• Hardness: 2–8 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (larger for bigger schools)

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Filtration: Gentle flow preferred

• Lighting: Moderate to low lighting to simulate shaded waters

A heavily planted aquarium with plenty of hiding places and floating plants provides a comfortable environment.

🐠 Tank Mates

The Emerald Eye Rasbora’s peaceful nature makes it suitable for calm, small-species community tanks.

Compatible tank mates:

• Other small rasboras (e.g., Harlequin, Chili)

• Small tetras (e.g., Ember, Neon)

• Corydoras catfish

• Otocinclus

• Small peaceful shrimp and snails

Avoid:

• Aggressive or large fish

• Fin-nippers

• Fast, boisterous species that might stress them

They exhibit best behavior when kept in schools of 8 or more.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Emerald Eye Rasboras are omnivores and benefit from a varied diet:

• High-quality micro flakes or finely crushed pellets

• Live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and microworms

• Freeze-dried options (crushed)

• Occasional vegetable flakes or spirulina-based food

Feed once or twice daily, in small amounts that are consumed quickly to maintain water quality.

🧼 Care and Maintenance

• Perform regular water changes (20–30% weekly)

• Maintain stable water parameters to avoid stress

• Use gentle filtration to mimic slow-flowing streams

• Provide a secure lid to prevent jumping

• Watch for signs of stress or illness, especially during acclimation

🌿 Why Choose the Emerald Eye Rasbora?

The Emerald Eye Rasbora adds subtle brilliance and peaceful schooling action to planted nano tanks and small community aquariums. Its distinctive green eyes and gentle nature make it a delightful choice for hobbyists looking to enhance their tanks with a tiny but striking species.

Enhance your aquarium with the sparkling charm of Emerald Eye Rasboras—order yours today!