After being inspired by someone's decision to set up a 130 litre tank for kubotai rasboras, I've decided to do the same. My tank will have a mix of gravel, a bit of sand, rocks, and some fallen leaves and branches to give it that river look. It's based on the Songgaria River in Western Thailand, which has minimal vegetation. The tank's dimensions are 90 cm long, 42 cm high, and 36 cm wide - it's an Aqua One Horizon 130 tank.
Kubotai rasboras are perfect for small aquariums, but a 10 gallon tank is too small for a large school. A 34 gallon tank like mine is ideal for a big shoal. These rasboras are rare in the hobby, but common in the wild. I'm planning to get at least 12 to 20 of them, as a bigger shoal looks more natural and colourful. They need a spacious biotope aquarium to thrive, not a small planted tank. Many people think they do well in planted tanks, but that's not entirely true. Planted tanks are artificial habitats for these fish.
A biotope that closely resembles the natural habitat is the best way to go. By recreating their natural environment, we can help endangered fish species like the eyespot rasbora and emerald dwarf danio. Even zoos and aquaria don't always keep these rare fish, but hobbyists are trying to make a difference by breeding them and replicating their habitats. Some aquariums have kept freshwater fish like the elephantnose fish and African butterflyfish, but it's not common.
By setting up a biotope, we can keep the fish healthier and happier. It's also a great educational tool for kids who want to learn about ecosystems. For example, a Lake Inle setup with emerald dwarf danios can teach kids about this area and the threats it faces. The water is clear with a fertile substrate and shallow, making it perfect for a riparian setup.
Biotopes are popular among experienced aquarists who have kept rare fish before. If we don't try to recreate these habitats, we'll never learn. I've done my research, and I'm excited to set up my tank.
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