Gold Head Purple Harlequin Rasbora

Harlequin Rasbora

Trigonostigma heteromorpha

Native Location: Malaysia

Climate: Tropical

Size: 4.5cm

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet: Omnivore

Breeding: Moderate

Temperature Range: 21-28℃ (70-82℉)

Preferred pH Range: 5.0 - 7.5

Minimum Aquarium Size: 60cm x 30cm for a group of 6-8 fish.

Potential Tankmates: Tetras, Guppies, Apistogramma, Kuhli loaches Care Level: Easy

The Gold Headed Purple Harlequin Rasbora is much like other Harlequin Rasbora, except they have a purple tone to their body with gold almost metallic head. although they are a purpose-bred strain, their care mirrors that of the natural Harlequin Rasbora which is found in peat swamps. They look fantastic when added to a lovely planted tank or aquascape display.

The ideal aquarium should consist of a substrate with leaf litter, twigs and other botanicals. This will produce the natural tinted water that can be found in their natural habitat. The tannins released from these items will help to create the acidic water, almost neutral water chemistry they like. The addition of aquatic plants such as Cryptocoryne species will provide these little fish with ample hiding spaces and create a very natural display.

Not known for being fussy eaters, they can be fed pretty much anything and they will be happy. Although, they are micro predators in the wild which indicates they do prefer a high protein diet. We can provide this by offering a balanced variety of live, frozen and dry foods. Daphnia and brine shrimp are some of the best live foods to offer them due to their size.

Breeding these Rasboras isn’t too difficult if a few specific things are provided. First of all, unlike most other fish in this genre, the Harlequin Rasbora is not an egg scatterer. Instead, they will attach their fertilized eggs to the underside of wide plant leaves. This is another reason why Cryptocoryne species are helpful. In an aquarium with a lot of plants, you may discover random fry appearing but for a higher level of success, set up a dedicated tank. Add a small group of fish, taking note that females tend to be larger and rounder than males. Once eggs have been attached, remove the adults otherwise they will eat the eggs. 

All our fish are quarantined on arrival for two weeks. During this time, we treat for any health issues that may occur during transport and ensure each fish is eating well and looking healthy.  All fish are treated with Flubendazole before finally going on sale.