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Neon Green Rasbora: A Comprehensive Care Guide (Microdevario kubotai)

The Neon Green Rasbora (Microdevario kubotai) is a tiny but vibrant freshwater fish known for its brilliant green coloration and active schooling behavior. Native to Southeast Asia, this species has become popular among aquarists who enjoy nano fish and planted aquariums.

Despite their small size, Neon Green Rasboras can create a striking display when kept in large schools. Their bright green bodies shimmer under aquarium lighting and contrast beautifully with plants, dark substrates, and natural aquascapes.

Because of their peaceful temperament and small size, Neon Green Rasboras are an excellent choice for nano aquariums and community tanks with other small fish.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

Neon Green Rasboras originate from Southeast Asia, particularly within river systems in Thailand and Myanmar.

In the wild they inhabit:

  • Small forest streams

  • Shallow tributaries

  • Areas with submerged vegetation

  • Slow-moving waters with leaf litter

These environments typically contain soft, slightly acidic water and dense plant cover.

Size

Adult size: approximately 0.8–1 inch (2–2.5 cm)

Neon Green Rasboras remain extremely small throughout their lives, making them ideal for nano aquariums.

Tank Size

Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
Recommended tank size: 15–20 gallons

Because they are schooling fish, Neon Green Rasboras should be kept in groups of at least 8–10 individuals. Larger groups create more natural behavior and an impressive visual display.

A longer aquarium provides more room for schooling movement.

Water Parameters

Neon Green Rasboras prefer stable water conditions similar to their natural habitat.

Temperature: 72–80°F
pH: 6.0–7.0
Hardness: soft to moderately soft

Maintaining clean water and performing regular water changes will help keep them healthy.

Aquarium Setup

A planted aquarium is ideal for Neon Green Rasboras.

Recommended tank features include:

  • Dense live plants

  • Mosses or fine-leaved plants

  • Driftwood and natural decorations

  • Dark substrate to highlight their coloration

Providing both plant cover and open swimming areas allows them to school comfortably.

Diet

Neon Green Rasboras are omnivorous micro-predators that feed on tiny foods.

In the aquarium they will accept:

  • High-quality nano pellets

  • Crushed flakes

  • Frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp or daphnia

  • Small live foods

Because of their tiny mouths, food should be finely sized.

Behavior and Temperament

Neon Green Rasboras are peaceful schooling fish that spend most of their time swimming in the middle and upper levels of the aquarium.

Typical behaviors include:

  • Tight schooling in groups

  • Active swimming through plants

  • Gentle interaction with tank mates

They are calm fish that rarely show aggression.

Tank Mates

Because of their small size, Neon Green Rasboras should be kept with other peaceful nano fish.

Good tank mates include:

  • Ember tetras

  • Small rasboras

  • Corydoras

  • Dwarf shrimp

  • Small rainbowfish such as Pseudomugil species

Avoid large or aggressive fish that may view them as food.

Breeding

Neon Green Rasboras are egg-scattering fish that may breed in well-established aquariums.

During spawning:

  • Eggs are scattered among plants or moss

  • Adults do not guard the eggs

  • Eggs typically hatch within 24–48 hours

The fry are extremely small and should initially be fed infusoria or powdered fry foods before transitioning to baby brine shrimp.

Fun Facts

  • Neon Green Rasboras were originally described relatively recently and quickly became popular in the aquarium hobby.

  • Their bright green coloration can appear especially vibrant under strong aquarium lighting.

  • When kept in large groups, they can create a striking green shimmer effect as the school moves through the aquarium.

Conclusion

The Neon Green Rasbora (Microdevario kubotai) is a beautiful and peaceful nano fish that thrives in planted aquariums and community tanks with other small species. Their vivid green coloration and active schooling behavior make them a favorite among aquarists who enjoy nano fish and aquascaping. With proper care and stable water conditions, Neon Green Rasboras can thrive and add vibrant movement to freshwater aquariums.

Looking to Add Fish to Your Aquarium?

If you're looking to add new fish to your aquarium, we recommend purchasing from trusted retailers known for their healthy livestock and excellent selection. The Wet Spot Tropical Fish has one of the best selections of rare and high-quality freshwater fish in the hobby, with excellent shipping and consistently healthy stock. Moonlight Aquatics is another fantastic source, especially for uncommon species and great prices on unique fish you don’t see everywhere. If you’re looking to add shrimp to your tanks, Buy Pet Shrimp specializes in hardy, well-bred freshwater shrimp that ship safely and arrive in great condition.

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Rasbora Fish Care Guide: Species, Habitat, and Aquarium Setup

 

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