TopFin Aquatics Species Profile: Glowlight Rasbora (Trigonostigma hengeli)

The Glowlight Rasbora, also known as the Lambchop Rasbora, is a peaceful, schooling fish that makes an excellent choice for nano and community aquariums alike. With its glowing orange stripe and active nature, this small rasbora is especially striking in planted aquariums with dark substrates.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Trigonostigma hengeli

• Common Name: Glowlight Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)

• Origin: Indonesia

• Diet: Micropredator

• Temperature: 23–28°C

• pH: 5.0–7.5 (prefers slightly acidic water)

• KH: 3–12 dKH

• Minimum Tank Size: 8 gallons

• Average Adult Size: 2.5–3 cm

• Average Purchase Size: 1.3–2.5 cm

Overview

The Glowlight Rasbora is a calm, social fish that thrives in peaceful, well-planted aquariums. Its natural schooling behavior is best observed in groups of six or more, though larger schools create even more impressive visual displays.

This species is an excellent choice for hobbyists seeking a visually active but low-aggression addition to their tank. It is especially well-suited to planted aquascapes with gentle water flow and slightly acidic conditions.

Behaviour & Compatibility

• Schooling Fish: Always keep in groups of 6 or more

• Tank Positioning: Primarily top and mid-water swimmers

• Compatible With:

  • Peaceful community fish

  • Adult dwarf shrimp (may eat shrimp fry)

  • Larger peaceful invertebrates

• Avoid Housing With: Aggressive or significantly larger fish

Feeding

Glowlight Rasboras are micropredators and benefit from a high-quality, varied diet. Offer a mix of:

• Fine flakes or micro pellets

• Live or frozen foods such as Artemia, microworms, Tubifex, and chopped bloodworms

• Freeze-dried options for variety

A varied diet ensures optimal health, coloration, and activity.

Aquascaping Tips

• Best displayed in heavily planted aquariums with dark substrates

• Floating plants help diffuse lighting and promote natural behavior

• Leaf litter or botanicals (e.g., Indian almond leaves) replicate their natural environment and improve water quality

• Requires very clean water and stable conditions for long-term health

Why Choose the Glowlight Rasbora?

• Peaceful and highly social

• Eye-catching colour and schooling movement

• Perfect for nano and planted setups

• Compatible with many small tankmates and invertebrates

• Hardy and adaptable for a micro-species