Mauve Harlequin Rasbora

Mauve Harlequin Rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha)
The Mauve Harlequin Rasbora is a variety of Trigonostigma heteromorpha with elegant purple hues, highly prized by aquarists for its beauty and peaceful behavior. Here's a comprehensive guide to caring for them:

Origin and Description
Native to Southeast Asia, particularly the slow-moving waters of Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Average size: Approximately 4 to 5 cm (1.5 to 2 inches) when adult.
Main characteristic: A diamond-shaped body with a mauve tint and a distinctive triangular black mark at the base of the tail.
Water Parameters
The Mauve Harlequin Rasbora is hardy but prefers stable conditions:

Temperature: 22 to 27 °C (72 to 81 °F).
pH: 5.0 to 7.0 (ideally slightly acidic).
Hardness: 2 to 12 dGH (soft water).
Filtration: Clean, gently filtered water with moderate to low current. They appreciate tannin-stained water (e.g., by adding catappa leaves).
Behavior and Compatibility
Behavior: Calm, peaceful, and schooling. It is essential to keep a group of at least 8 individuals for them to feel comfortable and display their natural behavior.
Compatibility: Suitable for community aquariums with other peaceful fish such as neon tetras, Corydoras, or Gouramis. Avoid pairing them with aggressive or overly boisterous species.
Swimming area: They primarily inhabit the middle zone of the aquarium.
Feeding
Omnivorous, Mauve Harlequin Rasboras have a simple diet to satisfy:

Dry food: Flakes or granules suitable for their small mouths.
Live or frozen food: Brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae to stimulate their natural instincts.
Supplements: Fine algae and small blanched vegetables for better coloration and health.
Breeding
Breeding this species is possible in a controlled environment:

Ideal conditions: A dedicated breeding tank with soft, acidic water (pH ~6.0) and a temperature of 25-26 °C (77-79 °F).
Spawning behavior: The female lays her eggs under the broad leaves of plants (such as Cryptocorynes), which the male then fertilizes.
Eggs hatch in 24 to 36 hours, and fry become free-swimming after 4 to 5 days. Feed young infusoria or fry food.
Aquarium Setup
Minimum volume: 60 liters (15 gallons) for a small group, but a 100-liter (25-gallon) tank is recommended for a larger group.
Decor: Live plants (Cryptocorynes, Anubias, Vallisneria) to provide hiding spots and shaded areas. Add roots or dead leaves to simulate their natural habitat.
Lighting: Moderate to low to highlight their mauve hues.
Substrate: Dark sand or fine gravel to enhance their colors.
Key Points to Monitor
Maintain impeccable water quality to prevent diseases.
Ensure an open swimming space, as they are active but not turbulent.
Never keep them in insufficient numbers, as they can become stressed or lethargic without company.
The Mauve Harlequin Rasbora is a graceful fish, ideal for peaceful community aquariums. Easy to care for, these fish add a touch of color and elegance, while being captivating to observe in a group.