Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora): A Sleek and Social Schooling Fish

When it comes to small, peaceful, and visually striking freshwater fish, the Espei Rasbora (Trigonostigma espei) stands out as an excellent choice. Sometimes called the Lambchop Rasbora because of the black, steak-shaped mark on its body, this species brings both charm and energy to planted aquariums. Their peaceful temperament, social nature, and ease of care make them ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Natural Habitat and Origins

The Espei Rasbora is native to southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, where it inhabits blackwater streams and slow-moving forested rivers. These waters are typically acidic, warm, and heavily vegetated, with leaf litter and tannins giving the water a tea-colored appearance.

Appearance

The Espei Rasbora is sleek and streamlined, growing to about 1.2 inches (3 cm) in length. Its body is an elegant orange-bronze, with a prominent black triangular marking that starts near the mid-body and ends at the tail — resembling a lambchop, hence the nickname.

Distinctive Traits:

• Slender, torpedo-shaped body

• Bright, coppery-orange coloration

• Iconic black “lambchop” pattern on the rear half

• Females tend to be slightly rounder than males

When kept in healthy conditions and in groups, their colors intensify, especially during courtship or in the early morning hours.

Tank Setup and Conditions

Espei Rasboras are adaptable and easygoing, but they thrive best in aquascapes that mimic their natural surroundings.

Ideal Tank Conditions:

• Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (larger if keeping bigger schools)

• Water Temperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)

• pH: 6.0 to 7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Aquascape: Live plants, driftwood, leaf litter, subdued lighting

A dark substrate and floating plants help bring out their vibrant color and reduce stress. They are schooling fish, so always keep them in groups of at least 6–10 to ensure they feel secure and display natural behavior.

Behavior and Tankmates

Espei Rasboras are peaceful, active, and highly social. They’re ideal for community tanks and get along well with other small, non-aggressive species.

Compatible Tankmates:

• Neon or Ember Tetras

• Corydoras catfish

• Dwarf Gouramis

• Harlequin Rasboras

• Kuhli Loaches

• Shrimp and snails (if the tank is mature and stable)

Avoid housing them with large or predatory fish that might see them as food.

Diet and Feeding

These rasboras are omnivores and readily accept most aquarium foods. A varied diet will help them stay healthy and bring out their best coloration.

Recommended Foods:

• High-quality micro pellets or flakes

• Frozen or live brine shrimp

• Daphnia

• Bloodworms (chopped for smaller fish)

• Vegetable-based flakes or blanched spinach

Feed small portions 1–2 times daily, being careful not to overfeed, especially in smaller tanks.

Breeding

Espei Rasboras are egg scatterers, and while they don’t typically breed in a community tank, a dedicated breeding setup can encourage spawning.

Breeding Setup Tips:

• Use a shallow tank with soft, acidic water

• Provide fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop

• Condition the pair with live foods

• Remove adults after spawning to prevent egg predation

The eggs hatch in about 24–36 hours, and fry should be fed infusoria or liquid fry food until they can accept microworms or baby brine shrimp.

Why Choose the Espei Rasbora?

• Great for small planted tanks

• Easy to care for and hardy

• Peaceful and community-friendly

• Adds movement and contrast to aquascapes

• Stunning coloration when kept in schools

Final Thoughts

The Espei Rasbora is a perfect blend of beauty, personality, and low-maintenance care. Whether you're stocking a lush nano aquascape or building a peaceful community tank, this little rasbora offers color, energy, and harmony. With proper care and companionship, they’ll reward you with vibrant displays and a sense of serene activity in your underwater world.