Red Scissortail Rasbora 5cm

Scissortail Rasbora
 

The Scissortail Raspbora is a criminally underrated species that is small, active, and a fantastic schooling species. Their peaceful nature makes them a great addition to a community tank or a biotope setup. These are species that look especially stunning in large groups of 20 or more fish because of how tight they can swim together, they offer a new and unique alternative to the more common rummy nose or neon tetra whilst also being a hardier fish.

Scissortail Raspboras only reach around 8 cm however this is much larger than most common tetras species which makes these fish perfect for larger aquariums. Whilst they lack a lot of vibrant colours they are loaded with shimmer and a contrasting tail. The body of this tetra is a pure silver colour with a heavily metallic green sheen on the face and body area. These fish also get their name because of the white or silver tips which contrast surprisingly well in the aquarium, especially on the tail fin. The large tail is quite pronounced in shape and does look like a pair of scissors which stands out even more with the black patches and white tips. In larger groups, it’s almost deceptive since all the silver bodies moving makes it seem like there are more fish than there are in the aquarium.

Breeding Scissortail Raspbora is relatively simple, as they follow a similar pattern to other tetra and raspbora species. Providing a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop will encourage the female to scatter her eggs. The male will fertilize the eggs, but neither parent will protect the eggs or fry. It is essential to remove the adult fish after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs or young fish.

Tank Recommendations for your Black Scissortail Rasbora

As Scissortail Raspbora are small and enjoy being in groups, a minimum tank size of 70 litres is recommended. These fish are active swimmers and will appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of open space for swimming. A soft, sandy substrate with driftwood and rocks for hiding is also ideal. Scissortail Raspbora prefers slightly acidic water with a pH of 6.0-7.0 and a temperature between 22-28° C.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Scissortail Raspboras are generally peaceful and can be kept with a wide range of similarly sized, non-aggressive fish species.

Usually Compatible

Small tetras, rasboras, guppies, mollies, platies, small barbs, corydoras, and small peaceful catfish.

Sometimes Compatible

Larger tetras, angelfish, and gouramis may sometimes be compatible but could pose a threat due to their size or territorial nature.

Rarely Compatible

Predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, or any fish large enough to eat the Scissortail Raspbora should be avoided.

Feeding your Black Scissortail Raspbora 

Scissortail Raspbora is omnivorous and will accept a wide range of foods. A balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or micro-pellet food, supplemented with live along with frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms, will keep them healthy and vibrant.