Head to head
Chili Rasbora vs Scissortail Rasbora
The chili rasbora and scissortail rasbora both belong to the broader rasbora group of Southeast Asian schooling fish, but they sit at opposite ends of the size spectrum within that group.
| Chili Rasbora | Scissortail Rasbora | |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific name | Boraras brigittae | Rasbora trilineata |
| Adult size | About 2 cm | Considerably larger |
| Signature feature | Intensely saturated red body | Constantly flicking, banded tail fin |
| Activity level | Moderate | High, fast and active |
| Ideal tank size | Small nano aquariums | Longer tanks with open water |
| Water preference | Soft, acidic blackwater | Tolerant of varied water conditions |
| Conservation status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Habitat | Rainforest, wetlands | Rainforest, wetlands |
Chili Rasbora vs Scissortail Rasbora: common questions
Which is smaller, the chili rasbora or the scissortail rasbora?
The chili rasbora is considerably smaller, rarely exceeding about 2 centimetres in length as a fully grown adult, making it one of the smallest schooling fish commonly kept in aquariums, while the scissortail rasbora grows to a notably larger adult size among rasboras.
Why does the scissortail rasbora flick its tail so much?
This species repeatedly flicks the two lobes of its forked, black-and-white banded tail fin open and shut in a motion resembling scissors, a near-constant habit not shared by the chili rasbora, which lacks the same bold tail banding or scissoring behaviour.
Which rasbora is better suited to a small nano aquarium?
The chili rasbora is far better suited to a small nano aquarium, since its tiny adult size allows a visually impressive school to be kept in a much smaller volume of water than the considerably larger and more active scissortail rasbora would require.