Scissortail Rasbora (Rasbora trilineata) is a beginner-level freshwater fish that needs at least 40 gallons and 72-79°F. A slender, fast silver rasbora with a black and white scissor pattern on its tail fork. It is larger and more active than most rasboras, so it needs swimming room and a tight lid.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Rasbora trilineata |
|---|---|
| Family | Danionidae |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Adult size | 5-6 in |
| Minimum tank | 40 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-79°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, very active |
| Social behavior | Schooling, keep 6+ |
| Swim level | Upper to mid |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Diet | Omnivore: flakes, small pellets, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 5-6 years |
Quick tips
- Use a long tank and a tight lid; they jump.
- Keep six or more.
- Avoid tiny shrimp and tiny fish as tankmates.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi