Scissortail Rasbora: An Active Fish With a Forked Signal

In this guide

Overview

The scissortail rasbora, Rasbora trilineata, gets its name from the black-and-white banded tail fin, which opens and closes in a scissoring motion as the fish swims, a genuinely visible behaviour rather than just a colour pattern. It comes from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and nearby parts of Southeast Asia. Most aquarium specimens settle at around eight to ten centimetres, though well-grown individuals can reach up to thirteen centimetres, making this one of the larger rasboras kept in home aquariums.

Given its size and active nature, it works best as a mid-sized shoaling centrepiece rather than blending into a small community tank.

Tank and water requirements

A group of six or more needs a tank of at least a hundred litres, with good length for swimming given how much open water this fish likes to cover. It is hardy and adaptable to a wide range of water conditions, including typical Indian tap water, making it considerably less fussy than the smaller, softer-water-loving rasboras.

A secure lid is worth having, since scissortails are capable jumpers, particularly when startled.

Diet and behaviour

An omnivorous diet of good-quality flakes or pellets, supplemented with occasional live or frozen food, suits its size and activity level. It is peaceful but energetic, and does best with similarly sized, active tankmates rather than small, timid fish that might feel overwhelmed by its pace.

Its constant motion and larger size make it a genuinely engaging centrepiece shoal for a bigger community tank.

Buying tips

• Priced around thirty to eighty rupees per fish depending on size in most Indian shops that stock larger rasboras
• Factor in its considerably larger adult size compared to harlequin or chili rasboras before buying, since undersized housing is a common mistake with this species
• A good choice for a spacious community tank wanting an active, visually interesting shoal

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