Rasbora – Harlequin, Espei Pork Chop Rasbora

Description

Pork Chop Rasbora

Espei Rasbora

Trigonostigma espei

The true Espe’s Rasbaora is an adorable micro cyprinid originating from overgrown jungle streams. The Espe’s Rasbora is yet another amazing aquarium fish from South East Asia. This fish is found throughout the eastern slopes of the Gulf of Thailand in the countries of Cambodia, Thailand. This is a small agile cyprinid fish that only reaches about an inch or 3 cm in length. It has unique bronze color w a pink blush which you won’t find on any other aquarium fish. It’s color can vary depending on where it comes from with some specimens having a more intense red. It’s distinguishing feature is a black lambchop shaped marking on the side.

It is often confused with 2 of its close relatives, the Harlequin Rasbora Trigonostigma heteromorpha and the Glowlight Rasbora Trigonostigma hengeli. The name ‘Espe’s Rasbora’ is also often mis-applied as the Hengel’s Rasbora. Both of these fish are frequently sold under the name of ‘False Harlequin’ as well.

To distinguish this fish from its con specifics, notice some subtle distinctions. The Harlequin Rasbora is pale pink to bright red, and is much thicker than its cousins. The Harlequin’s black mark is also much closer to a triangle shape and will have a noticeably blue tint. The Glowlight Rasbora is more of a butter colored fish and will have an iridescent orange stripe above a thin and very rounded black triangle. The Espe’s Rasbora should be bronze pink in color and have no orange stripe above the black triangle.

This little rasbora couldn’t be friendlier. It makes a great addition to any peaceful tank. They need to be kept in a groups of at least 8 – 10 individuals. Even though they have a tendency to not swim in a tight school, the companionship of their own species is absolutely essential.A school of 20 or more could be housed in a 10 gallon tank as the bare minimum, but a 20 gallon aquarium will suit them best.

They are very tolerant fish that require little care, so they make a great fish for the beginner. To bring out their best colors use a darker substrate and provide them with plenty of plants.

Min order no less than 6