Description
The Rummy Nose Rasbora (scientific name: Sawbwa resplendens), also known as the Sawbwa barb, Naked Microrasbora, or Asian Rummynose, is a mesmerizing nano fish that brings beauty and movement to any peaceful community aquarium. Renowned for its striking appearance, shoaling behavior, and peaceful nature, this species is a favorite among aquarists, particularly those with planted tanks and dark substrates that enhance its vibrant colors.
A rasbora, not a tetra: Despite sometimes being called the “Asian Rummy Nose Tetra,” Sawbwa resplendens is a cyprinid (the carp and rasbora family) found only in Inle Lake and its surrounding waters in Myanmar. It is not related to the South American Rummy Nose Tetra (Petitella bleheri), which needs much warmer water. If you are shopping for the classic red-nosed Amazon tetra, see our Tetras for sale instead. For more small cyprinids like this one, browse our rasbora fish for sale, and see how the two “rummy nose” fish differ in our Rummy Nose Tetra care guide.
While wild populations are facing challenges, dedicated aquaculture efforts are helping preserve this remarkable species, making it accessible to fishkeeping enthusiasts worldwide.
Behavior & Tank Compatibility
The Rummy Nose Rasbora primarily inhabits the top and middle levels of the aquarium but will occasionally explore all areas while foraging. It thrives in schools of at least six, with larger groups displaying fascinating social dynamics as males compete and posture. This species is an excellent tankmate for other small, peaceful freshwater fish that also enjoy cooler water, and can cohabitate with adult dwarf shrimp, although it may prey on shrimp fry. Larger, peaceful invertebrates also make suitable companions.
This adaptable rasbora flourishes in slow-moving, well-maintained water with a planted environment, dark substrate, and floating plants to replicate its natural habitat. Clean water conditions are essential for maintaining its optimal health and coloration.
Diet & Feeding
Not a finicky eater, the Rummy Nose Rasbora maintains its brilliant colors on a varied diet rich in protein. It eagerly accepts high-quality flake foods, micro pellets, and live or frozen delicacies such as Artemia (brine shrimp), microworms, Tubifex, and finely chopped bloodworms. Regularly providing a diverse diet will enhance both its vibrancy and overall well-being.
Recommended Tank Parameters
Temperature: 64.4° – 72° F (18° – 22° C)
pH: 6.0 – 8.0
KH: 3-12 dKH
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
Add a school of Rummy Nose Rasboras to your aquarium and enjoy the graceful movement and dazzling display of these captivating nano fish! Every fish is quarantined before listing, packed carefully, and shipped live within the USA from our Virginia-based fish store, backed by our live-arrival guarantee.
Rummy Nose Rasbora Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How big do rummy nose rasboras get?
Rummy Nose Rasboras (Sawbwa resplendens) typically grow to an adult size of 1 – 1.4 inches (2.5 – 3.5 cm). These small, schooling fish are best kept in groups to showcase their natural shoaling behavior. Their compact size makes them an excellent choice for nano and planted aquariums, where they add movement and color to the setup.
Are rummy nose rasboras aggressive?
Rummy Nose Rasboras are generally peaceful towards other species but can display territorial aggression among males, especially in small groups. To minimize aggressive interactions, it’s best to keep them in larger schools within a well-planted aquarium with a dark substrate.
Are rummy nose rasbora hard to keep?
Rummy Nose Rasbora are moderately easy to keep, but they require high water quality to thrive. Maintaining stable water parameters, clean conditions, and a well-planted environment will keep them healthy and stress-free.
Is the rummy nose rasbora a tetra?
No. The Rummy Nose Rasbora (Sawbwa resplendens) is a cyprinid from Inle Lake in Myanmar, not a tetra. It prefers cooler water of about 64–72°F, while the South American Rummy Nose Tetra (Petitella bleheri) needs warmer water of about 76–82°F, so the two are not interchangeable.
