CompatibilityBoraras maculatus is an extremely peaceful shoaling fish that should be kept in groups of 8–10 individuals (preferably 12–20) in a species-specific aquarium or with other tiny non-aggressive species: micro rasboras, Henge's rasbora, dwarf Corydoras, Otocinclus, small tetras (e.g., Amandae), dwarf gouramis, as well as Caridina and Neocaridina shrimps and small snails. Large, fast, or predatory fish capable of perceiving rasboras as food (cichlids, large barbs, large gouramis, catfish), as well as known fin-biters, are strictly prohibited. The species is completely safe for plants and recommended for densely planted nano aquascapes.
Plant safetySafe
Plant-eating behaviourDoes not eat plants. In nature, it is a micro-predator feeding on small insects, worms, crustaceans, and zooplankton. In the aquarium, dense planting, including floating plants, is recommended for cover and light diffusion; live plants do not harm the species.
Interaction with invertebratesThe species is safe for peaceful aquarium invertebrates: it is well compatible with dwarf Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp and snails, and the fish do not exhibit predatory behavior towards adults. Very small newborn shrimps could theoretically be eaten, so dense cover (moss) is recommended to preserve shrimp offspring.
Incompatible groupsDo not keep with large, predatory, aggressive, or overly active fish capable of perceiving micro-assemblage as food or displacing it from feeding zones: large cichlids, large gouramis, angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare), large catfish, Koi carp, and any fish larger than approximately 3–4 cm. Fast and noisy neighbors that create competition for food are also undesirable.
Reference illustration · may contain inaccuracies
