Green Kubotai Rasbora (Microdevario kubotai)

The Green Kubotai Rasbora, Microdevario kubotai, is a stunning, small freshwater fish known for its vivid green coloration and peaceful nature. This species is popular in planted aquariums, where its striking appearance stands out against a lush background. It’s an ideal fish for nano tanks and community aquariums due to its small size and active schooling behavior.

Natural Habitat

Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Myanmar, the Green Kubotai Rasbora is found in slow-moving rivers, streams, and swampy areas. These waters are typically shaded by dense vegetation and are rich in organic matter. The fish thrive in areas with a lot of submerged plants and leaf litter, which provide both food and shelter. In the wild, they feed on tiny insects, zooplankton, and other micro-organisms found in their environment.

Appearance

Green Kubotai Rasboras are renowned for their shimmering green body, which sometimes has a neon-like quality under proper lighting. Their bodies are slender and streamlined, growing up to only about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length, making them perfect for small, densely planted aquariums. Males tend to display more vibrant colors, especially during breeding seasons, while females may have a slightly duller appearance.

Aquarium Care

These delicate fish are relatively easy to care for, provided that their environmental needs are met.

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 10 gallons (37 liters) is recommended, though larger tanks are ideal for housing schools of 6 or more individuals. Their active swimming habits and schooling behavior require ample space for them to explore and feel secure.
• Water Parameters: Green Kubotai Rasboras prefer a water temperature between 72°F and 80°F (22°C - 27°C), with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Soft, slightly acidic water mimics their natural habitat and keeps them healthy. It is also crucial to maintain stable water conditions through regular water changes.
• Tank Setup: A well-planted aquarium is key to keeping these fish happy. Dense vegetation provides shelter and mimics their natural environment. Floating plants can help diffuse light and create a more subdued atmosphere, which these fish prefer. Substrate can be a mix of fine sand or gravel, and the inclusion of driftwood or leaf litter will replicate their wild habitats.
• Diet: In the aquarium, Green Kubotai Rasboras thrive on a varied diet. They are micro-predators, so they enjoy live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and micro worms. They can also be fed high-quality flakes or micro-pellets, but supplementing their diet with live or frozen foods ensures they maintain vibrant coloration and good health.
• Behavior and Tank Mates: Green Kubotai Rasboras are peaceful, shoaling fish, best kept in groups of six or more. In larger schools, their colors are more prominent, and they feel more secure. They are ideal for community tanks and get along well with other small, peaceful species such as tetras, small danios, or other rasboras. Avoid pairing them with larger, more aggressive fish that could view them as prey.

Breeding

Breeding Green Kubotai Rasboras in home aquariums is relatively straightforward. Like many rasboras, they are egg scatterers. When ready to breed, males will display vibrant colors to attract females. A well-planted tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops provides ideal places for eggs to be laid. After spawning, the eggs are typically left to fend for themselves, so it’s best to separate the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs hatch in about 24 to 36 hours, and the fry can be fed infusoria or liquid fry food until they are large enough to accept micro foods like baby brine shrimp.

Common Issues

Though Green Kubotai Rasboras are hardy fish, they can be sensitive to poor water conditions, especially if kept in tanks that are not well-maintained. Regular water changes, good filtration, and stable water parameters are essential to preventing stress and disease.

Conclusion

Green Kubotai Rasboras are a delightful addition to any planted or community aquarium. Their vibrant green color and lively behavior make them a striking feature in any tank. By providing them with the right environment, a varied diet, and suitable tank mates, they will thrive and bring life to your aquarium.