The Elegant rasbora (Rasbora elegans) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The elegant rasbora is a cyprinid from fresh water of Southeast Asia, in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a slender, silvery to golden-brown body with a few dark blotches on the flank and tail base. It schools actively in clear forest streams, rivers and swamps and feeds on insects, small zooplankton and plant matter. The fish is popular in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Elegant rasbora?
The Elegant rasbora has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Dark flank and caudal blotches; actively schooling rasbora
Where does the Elegant rasbora live?
The Elegant rasbora lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Elegant rasbora get?
The Elegant rasbora grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Elegant rasbora dangerous to humans?
No, the Elegant rasbora is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Elegant rasbora edible?
The Elegant rasbora is not usually eaten.
More photos

Want the complete picture on the Elegant rasbora?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elegant rasbora is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rasbora
More from the family Cyprinidae

Want the complete picture on the Elegant rasbora?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elegant rasbora is one of 12,519 species in the app.