Red Line Rasbora (Trigonopoma pauciperforatum):

Species Profile:

Red Line Rasbora (Trigonopoma pauciperforatum), also frequently referred to in the hobby as the Redstripe Rasbora, is an elegant, slender, and peaceful shoaling fish. Native to the tannin-rich, slow-moving forest streams and peat swamps of Southeast Asia (specifically Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and parts of Thailand), it is a classic choice for the community aquarium, prized for its subtle beauty and graceful movement.

Morphology and Identification

• Appearance: This species is best recognised by its sleek, torpedo-shaped body. Its most distinctive feature is a vibrant, horizontal red stripe that runs along the lateral line from the gill cover to the base of the tail, underscored by a secondary black stripe.

• Size: They are a modest species, typically reaching an adult length of 6 to 7 centimetres (2.5 to 2.8 inches).

• Sexual Dimorphism: Mature specimens can be sexed by their body shape; females are generally fuller and deeper-bodied, particularly when in spawning condition, while males are often slightly more slender and may exhibit more intense coloration.

Aquarium Requirements

To ensure these fish thrive and display their best colours, the aquarium should emulate their natural, shaded forest environment.

Optimal Hydrochemical Targets

• Aquascape Design: A heavily planted aquarium with a dark substrate and background will significantly help the fish feel secure. The use of driftwood and dried leaves (such as Indian Almond leaves) is recommended to impart natural tannins, which soften the water and create a soothing, “blackwater” aesthetic.

• Lighting and Flow: They prefer subdued lighting, which can be achieved through the use of floating plants to diffuse overhead light. Provide gentle water circulation to mimic their native forest streams.

• Security: Like many small cyprinids, the Red Line Rasbora is an accomplished jumper. A tight-fitting aquarium lid is essential.

Dietary Regime

As micro-predators in the wild, these fish require a varied, protein-rich diet to remain healthy.

• Staple Foods: High-quality micro-pellets or crushed flake foods designed for small tropical fish.

• Treats: Supplement their diet 2–3 times a week with frozen or live foods, such as Daphnia, Brine Shrimp, mosquito larvae, or bloodworms.

• Feeding Habit: Due to their small mouths, ensure that any dry food is small enough to be consumed easily. Feed 1–2 times daily, providing only what they can consume within two to three minutes to prevent water quality issues.

Social Dynamics and Community Synergy

• Shoaling Behaviour: The Red Line Rasbora is a deeply social fish. They must be maintained in a group; a shoal of 8 to 10 individuals is the absolute minimum, though larger groups (15+) will display much more natural schooling behaviour and reduced stress.

• Compatibility: They are famously peaceful and make exemplary community residents. They pair well with other calm species that appreciate similar water conditions, such as:

  • Dither fish: Small tetras or other peaceful rasboras.

  • Bottom dwellers: Kuhli loaches, Corydoras catfish, or Otocinclus species.

  • Others: Small gouramis, dwarf cichlids, or peaceful invertebrates.

• Avoidance: Do not house them with boisterous barbs, large cichlids, or any aggressive fish that might intimidate them or dominate their feeding space.

Breeding Notes

Breeding Trigonopoma pauciperforatum is considered moderately challenging. It requires a dedicated, shallow breeding tank with soft, acidic water and an abundance of fine-leaved plants (such as Java Moss) for egg deposition. The parents should be removed immediately after spawning to prevent them from predating on the eggs. The resulting fry are extremely sensitive to water changes and require microscopic foods such as Infusoria before graduating to brine shrimp nauplii.

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