Harlequin Rasbora

Descrizione

Trigonostigma heteromorpha, commonly known as the Harlequin Rasbora, is a small, schooling freshwater fish belonging to the family Cyprinidae. It is highly prized in the aquarium trade for its striking coloration and peaceful demeanor. The species is characterized by a distinctive black, triangular patch on its posterior flank, which gives it its common name. This patch is often described as a 'harlequin's mask' or a 'wedge'.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

compressed

Colorazione

The body is generally a coppery-orange to reddish-pink, with the intensity varying based on mood, diet, and water parameters. The most prominent feature is the large, triangular or wedge-shaped black patch on the posterior half of the body, extending from below the dorsal fin to the caudal peduncle. The fins are typically hyaline (clear) or slightly tinted with the body color.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

superior

Caratteristiche distintive

Prominent black triangular/wedge-shaped patch on the posterior flank., Coppery-orange to reddish-pink body coloration., Small, slender body reaching up to 4.5 cm (1.8 inches) in standard length.

Pinna dorsale

Single, relatively small, located mid-body.

Pinna caudale

Forked, with rounded lobes.

Pinna pettorale

Small, clear, positioned ventrally.

Pinne distintive

All fins are generally clear or slightly colored, lacking prominent markings other than the body patch.

Consigli per l'identificazione

Habitat

Tipo di acqua

freshwater

Profondità

Typically found in shallow, slow-moving waters.

Ambiente

Native to blackwater streams, peat swamps, and forest streams with dense vegetation. These environments are characterized by soft, acidic water, often stained brown by tannins from decaying organic matter. They prefer areas with submerged plants, roots, and leaf litter, which provide cover and foraging opportunities.

Areale geografico

Native to Southeast Asia, specifically Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, and parts of Sumatra and Borneo (Indonesia, Brunei, Malaysia). There are also reports from southern Thailand, though these may represent introduced populations or range extensions.

Informazioni sull'acquario

• Livello di cura: beginner
• Temperamento: peaceful
• Dieta: omnivore
• Dimensione minima della vasca: 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperatura: 22-27 C (72-81 F)
• Livello di pH: 6.0-7.5
• Durezza: 5-12 dGH
• Compatibilità: Excellent for community tanks with other peaceful, similarly sized fish such as other small rasboras, tetras, dwarf gouramis, corydoras, and small Loricariids. Avoid housing with large or aggressive species.
• Requisiti speciali: Requires a well-planted aquarium with subdued lighting and open swimming areas. They thrive in schools of 8 or more individuals. A dark substrate can enhance their coloration. Filtration should provide gentle to moderate flow.

Informazioni in natura

• Stato di conservazione: least concern
• Stagionalità: Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season in their natural habitat, when water levels rise and food sources are abundant. In aquariums, breeding can be induced year-round with proper conditioning.
• Prezzo di mercato: Low to moderate (typically $2-$5 per fish)
• Importanza commerciale: high
• Sapore: Not typically consumed due to small size.
• Consistenza: Not typically consumed due to small size.
• Valore nutrizionale: Not typically consumed due to small size.

Fatti chiave

Specie simili

Classificazione scientifica

Regno

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Classe

Actinopterygii

Ordine

Cypriniformes

Famiglia

Cyprinidae

Genere

Trigonostigma

Specie

T. heteromorpha

Esplora Harlequin Rasbora