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Overview

Harlequin rasboras are peaceful, schooling fish known for their distinctive black triangular markings and subtle copper-orange coloration. They are a popular choice for calm community aquariums and offer a great alternative to tetras for beginners.

While slightly more sensitive than some livebearers, harlequin rasboras are hardy once established and thrive in stable, well-maintained tanks.

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Tank Requirements

• Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
• Temperature: 72–80°F
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water hardness: Soft to moderate
• Filtration: Gentle to moderate flow

Harlequin rasboras prefer stable water conditions and benefit from planted aquariums with open swimming space. Gentle filtration and consistent maintenance are more important than chasing exact water parameters.

New to aquariums? If this is your first tank, check out our Start Your First Tank guide for a step-by-step walkthrough on choosing equipment, cycling your tank, and avoiding common beginner mistakes.

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Behavior & Compatibility

Harlequin rasboras are calm, social fish that do best when kept in groups. Schooling helps them feel secure and encourages natural behavior.

They are peaceful community fish and coexist well with other non-aggressive species. Their gentle nature makes them best suited for calm aquariums rather than fast-moving or aggressive setups.

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Diet

Harlequin rasboras are omnivores and are easy to feed in home aquariums. A high-quality flake or small pellet formulated for tropical fish works well as a staple.

They will also accept frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia as occasional treats. Feed small amounts once or twice daily.

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Breeding

Harlequin rasboras are egg layers, but breeding them is more challenging than many beginner fish. Successful breeding typically requires soft water, dense plants, and controlled conditions.

For most beginners, breeding can be safely ignored, as it is unlikely to occur in a standard community tank.

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Why This Fish Is Great for Beginners

Harlequin rasboras are a strong choice for beginners who want a peaceful, attractive schooling fish:

• Calm and community-friendly
• Subtle but distinctive coloration
• Hardy once established
• A great alternative to more common schooling fish

With stable care and a peaceful setup, harlequin rasboras can be a rewarding addition to a beginner aquarium.