Ceylon Pygmy Rasbora

The Ceylon pygmy rasbora is a species only 2 cm long from the lowlands of Sri Lanka and southwestern India. A line that shines green-gold as it catches the light runs along its semi-transparent, greenish body; orange tones can be seen in its fins. It lives in shallow waters such as swamps, ponds and slow-flowing vegetated channels. It is rarely seen in the hobby and is kept with care similar to Boraras species.

• At least 25 liters for a group of 10–15; a mature, planted nano aquarium.
• 24–27°C, pH 6–7.5, soft to moderately hard water.
• Dense plants, moss and floating plants; dim light.
• Very weak flow; a sponge filter is ideal.

It is a micropredator. It accepts micro granules and flakes ground to powder; supplement with newly hatched brine shrimp, cyclops and microworms. Feed little and often.

Peaceful and timid. It moves in a loose group among the plants; large, active tankmates constantly drive it into hiding.

Good companions: Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp, Boraras species, celestial pearl danios, otocinclus, dwarf corydoras species, small snails.

Avoid: any fish with a mouth big enough to swallow it, medium-sized and active species, including bettas.