Glowlight Rasbora – Trigonostigma hengeli – 2 to 2.5 cm

Trigonostigma hengeli – Glowlight Rasbora

The Glowlight Rasbora (Trigonostigma hengeli) is a small freshwater fish native to South-East Asia. Closely related to the Harlequin Rasbora, it can be distinguished by its smaller size and characteristic colouration.

Its relatively translucent body features a dark marking towards the rear of each side, highlighted by a striking orange to copper area that can become particularly bright when the fish are well acclimatised.

The specimens offered here are approximately 2 to 2.5 cm.

Adult Size

The Glowlight Rasbora remains a small fish, generally reaching approximately 3 cm as an adult.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 22 to 28 °C
pH: 6 to 7.5
Hardness: soft to moderately hard water
Nitrite: 0 mg/L

Nitrite should remain undetectable. Clean, stable and properly filtered water helps keep these fish in good condition.

What Size Aquarium for Glowlight Rasboras?

An aquarium at least 60 cm long provides a suitable basis for keeping a shoal of Trigonostigma hengeli.

Plenty of vegetation provides sheltered areas, while part of the aquarium should remain open to give the shoal sufficient swimming space.

Behaviour and Shoaling

Trigonostigma hengeli is a very peaceful and social species. It is preferable to keep at least 8 to 10 individuals. Where aquarium size allows, a larger shoal is even better.

Keeping these fish in a group encourages natural behaviour and helps them feel more secure in their environment.

The Glowlight Rasbora can live alongside many other small, peaceful species with compatible aquarium requirements.

Feeding

In the wild, the Glowlight Rasbora feeds on small invertebrates, insects, larvae and other small organisms.

In the aquarium, it readily accepts small pellets and finely crushed flakes suitable for the size of its mouth. Small frozen or live foods can also be offered as part of a varied diet.

A varied diet helps maintain good condition and attractive colouration.

Breeding

The Glowlight Rasbora is an egg-laying species. Eggs are deposited amongst vegetation, particularly on the underside of plant leaves.

The adults provide no parental care and may eat the eggs.

Origin

Trigonostigma hengeli originates from South-East Asia, including Indonesia.

In the wild, it mainly inhabits calm or slow-moving waters, often associated with abundant vegetation.

Lifespan

The Glowlight Rasbora can live for approximately 5 to 6 years in an aquarium when kept under suitable conditions.

Never Release Aquarium Fish into the Wild

Trigonostigma hengeli must never be released into a river, pond, lake or any other natural environment.