Sawbwa resplendens, commonly known as the Asian Rummynose, is a small, peaceful species with striking colors, ideal for well-planted community tanks.
Overview
Sawbwa resplendens, commonly referred to as the Asian Rummynose or Rummynose Rasbora, is a beautiful small fish native to Inle Lake in Myanmar. With their bright red nose and silver-blue body, they are a striking addition to any aquarium. These fish typically grow to around 3-4 cm in length and have a lifespan of 3-5 years. Their peaceful nature and small size make them ideal for community tanks with other small, non-aggressive species.
Tank Requirements
The Asian Rummynose thrives in tanks of at least 60 liters, with water temperatures between 22-26°C, a pH of 6.5-7.5, and general hardness (GH) between 5-12. A well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spaces and moderate lighting is essential for their well-being. They prefer slightly softer water, so using driftwood or peat filtration can help maintain optimal water conditions. The tank should have a gentle water flow to simulate their natural habitat.
Feeding and Diet
Sawbwa resplendens are omnivores, primarily feeding on small invertebrates, algae, and plant matter in the wild. In an aquarium setting, they readily accept high-quality flake foods, micro-pellets, and frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. A varied diet will help maintain their bright colors and overall health.
Care and Maintenance
The Asian Rummynose is relatively easy to care for, provided that water conditions are stable and the tank is well-maintained. Perform regular water changes of around 20-25% weekly to ensure water quality. They are sensitive to fluctuations in water parameters, so maintaining a stable environment is key to their health.
Compatibility
These peaceful fish do well in community tanks with other small, non-aggressive species like tetras, danios, and rasboras. Avoid housing them with larger or aggressive species that may bully or outcompete them for food. They also enjoy the company of their own kind, so keeping them in groups of at least six individuals will reduce stress and bring out their natural behavior.
Breeding
Breeding Sawbwa resplendens in captivity can be moderately difficult. They are egg scatterers, and breeding is often triggered by warmer temperatures and an abundance of live food. A separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants for egg deposition is recommended. Once eggs are laid, the adults should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. The fry are very small and require infusoria or liquid fry food initially, followed by baby brine shrimp as they grow.