Scissortail Rasbora 4cm – Rasbora trilineata

The Scissortail Rasbora is a peaceful, active schooling fish known for its streamlined silver body and distinctive black-and-white tail markings.

As they swim, the forked tail moves in a scissor-like motion, giving this attractive freshwater species its common name. Scissortail Rasboras are an excellent choice for larger community aquariums where they have plenty of open space to swim.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Rasbora trilineata
• Common Name: Scissortail Rasbora
• Approximate Sale Size: 4cm
• Adult Size: Approximately 10–15cm
• Temperament: Peaceful and active
• Care Level: Easy to moderate
• Temperature: Approximately 22–25°C
• pH: Approximately 6.0–8.0
• Hardness: Approximately 5–12 dGH
• Diet: Omnivore
• Swimming Area: Middle to upper levels
• Social Behaviour: Schooling fish – best kept in groups

Active Schooling Fish

Scissortail Rasboras are social fish and should be kept in a group. A school of at least six or more is recommended, with larger groups creating an even more impressive display.

They are strong, active swimmers and appreciate plenty of open swimming room. Because this species grows considerably larger than many other rasboras, aquarium length is particularly important.

Scissortail Rasbora Tank Mates

Scissortail Rasboras are generally peaceful and work well in larger community aquariums with fish that enjoy similar water conditions.

Suitable tank mates may include:

• Other peaceful rasboras
• Medium-sized tetras
• Danios
• Peaceful barbs
• Corydoras
• Peaceful catfish
• Other similarly sized community fish

Avoid keeping them with highly aggressive fish or very small tank mates that could become stressed by their fast swimming behaviour.

Feeding Scissortail Rasboras

Scissortail Rasboras readily accept a variety of aquarium foods.

A quality tropical flake or appropriately sized pellet can form the basis of their diet. Frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms can also be offered to provide variety.

A varied diet helps maintain good condition and natural activity.

Aquarium Setup

Scissortail Rasboras are best suited to an aquarium with plenty of swimming length. Plants, rocks and driftwood can be arranged around the sides and rear of the tank while leaving open swimming space through the centre.

Good filtration and regular maintenance are important, as this species does best in clean, well-oxygenated water.

A secure aquarium lid is essential. Scissortail Rasboras are strong jumpers and may escape through surprisingly small gaps.

Why Choose Scissortail Rasboras?

Scissortail Rasboras are an excellent choice for aquarists looking for a peaceful schooling fish with plenty of movement.

Their silver body, distinctive tail markings and coordinated swimming behaviour make them particularly attractive in larger freshwater community aquariums.

Browse our live aquarium fish range for more freshwater fish available from Aquaholics Online.

Live fish may vary slightly in colour, pattern and size from photographs. The listed size is approximate.