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Rasbora rasbora, commonly known as the Gangetic Scissortail Rasbora, is a small, schooling freshwater fish belonging to the family Cyprinidae. It is characterized by its slender, elongated body and a distinctive deeply forked caudal fin, which gives it the 'scissortail' moniker. This species is known for its active swimming behavior and generally peaceful disposition, making it a suitable inhabitant for community aquariums, though it is less commonly encountered in the ornamental fish trade compared to some other Rasbora species. In its natural habitat, it plays a role in the food web as both a consumer of small invertebrates and algae, and as prey for larger fish.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- The body is generally silvery-grey to yellowish-brown, often with a distinct dark lateral stripe running from the operculum to the caudal peduncle. The fins are typically hyaline (transparent) to yellowish, with the caudal fin sometimes exhibiting reddish or orange tinges, especially in breeding males. The dorsal surface is usually darker than the ventral side.
- Scale type
- cycloid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Deeply forked caudal fin (scissortail), Prominent dark lateral stripe, Slender, elongated body
- Dorsal fin
- Single, relatively small dorsal fin located mid-body, with 2 unbranched and 7 branched rays.
- Tail fin
- Deeply forked, giving it the 'scissortail' appearance. The lobes are pointed.
- Pectoral fin
- Paired, relatively small, located ventrally behind the operculum.
- Distinctive fins
- The anal fin is positioned posterior to the dorsal fin, with 2 unbranched and 5 branched rays. Pelvic fins are small and abdominal.
Identification Tips
Caudal Fin
Look for the very deeply forked tail fin, which is a key distinguishing feature and gives the fish its common name.
Lateral Stripe
Observe the distinct dark lateral stripe running along the side of the body, from the gill cover to the base of the caudal fin.
Body Shape
Note the slender, elongated body, which is typical for many Rasbora species but combined with the scissortail, aids in identification.
Size
Adults typically reach a maximum standard length of about 10-12 cm (4-5 inches).
Habitat
- Water type
- freshwater
- Depth
- Typically found in shallow to moderate depths, often near the surface or in mid-water.
- Environment
- Inhabits slow-moving to moderately flowing rivers, streams, canals, ponds, and ditches. It prefers areas with dense aquatic vegetation, submerged roots, and leaf litter, which provide cover and foraging opportunities. It is often found in clear to slightly turbid waters.
- Geographic range
- Native to South Asia, primarily found in the Ganges-Brahmaputra river system and its tributaries in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and possibly Myanmar. Its distribution extends across the Gangetic plains.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: beginner
- Temperament: peaceful
- Diet: omnivore
- Minimum tank size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
- Temperature: 22-26°C (72-79°F)
- pH level: 6.0-7.5
- Hardness: 5-15 dGH
- Compatibility: Excellent for community tanks with other peaceful, similarly sized fish such as other rasboras, tetras, danios, and small catfishes. Avoid housing with large or aggressive species.
- Special requirements: Prefers a well-planted aquarium with open swimming areas. A dark substrate and floating plants can help bring out their colors and reduce stress. They are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6-8 individuals to thrive.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Breeds during the monsoon season (typically June to September) in its natural habitat, when water levels are high and food is abundant. Available year-round in local markets, but wild catches may fluctuate seasonally.
- Market price: Low
- Commercial importance: low
- Taste: Mild, slightly earthy
- Texture: Delicate, flaky
- Cooking methods: Fried, Curried, Steamed
- Nutritional value: Good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, typical of small freshwater fish.
Key Facts
Scissortail Name Origininteresting
The common name 'Scissortail' directly refers to its deeply forked caudal fin, which resembles a pair of open scissors.
Schooling Behaviorbehavior
Rasbora rasbora is a highly social species that thrives in large schools, providing safety in numbers and facilitating foraging.
Ecological Roleinteresting
As a small omnivore, it plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by consuming small invertebrates and algae, and serving as a food source for larger predatory fish and birds.
Habitat Preferencebehavior
This species prefers habitats with abundant aquatic vegetation, which offers both shelter from predators and a rich source of food.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: edible
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions are required beyond standard fish handling practices to minimize stress and injury to the fish. Avoid direct contact with bare hands if possible, or use wet hands to prevent damage to their protective slime coat.
Similar Species
Red-tailed Rasbora
Rasbora borapetensis
R. borapetensis has a more pronounced red or orange coloration in its caudal fin and often a more distinct black stripe bordered by a golden stripe above it. R. rasbora's caudal fin coloration is usually less intense, and the lateral stripe is typically a single dark band without a prominent golden border.
Brilliant Rasbora
Rasbora einthovenii
R. einthovenii has a very prominent, broad black lateral stripe that extends into the caudal fin, and its body shape can be slightly more robust. R. rasbora's stripe is generally narrower and does not typically extend as strongly into the caudal fin lobes.
Slender Rasbora
Rasbora daniconius
R. daniconius is generally more widespread and can be very similar. However, R. daniconius typically has a less deeply forked caudal fin and its lateral stripe can be more variable, sometimes appearing as a series of blotches rather than a continuous band. Morphometric analysis is often required for definitive differentiation in some cases.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Cypriniformes
- Family
- Cyprinidae
- Genus
- Rasbora
- Species
- Rasbora rasbora
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