Can Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Nana Rasbora Live Together?

Possible with Caution

Keeping Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Nana Rasbora together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 38 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)

Trigonostigma espei

Nana Rasbora

Microdevario nana

🐟Family Group
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Cyprinids
Nana Rasbora
Cyprinids
Temperament
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Peaceful (1/10)
Nana Rasbora
Peaceful (0/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
23–28°C
Nana Rasbora
20–27°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
5.5–7.5
Nana Rasbora
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
1–12
Nana Rasbora
1–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Freshwater Only
Nana Rasbora
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Low
Nana Rasbora
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 38 L
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
38 L
Nana Rasbora
38 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
MiddleTop
Nana Rasbora
MiddleTop
🏷️Behavior Tags
Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Nana Rasbora
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Nana Rasbora?

Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.

Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora)
Nana Rasbora
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) is a peaceful species (1/10), while Nana Rasbora is peaceful (0/10). This modest difference means Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) may occasionally assert dominance over Nana Rasbora.

Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Nana Rasbora both frequent the Middle (Open Water) and Top (Surface) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 23°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 1–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Nana Rasbora together, plan for an aquarium of at least 38 litres with a minimum length of 45 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Plants - Densely covered, Leaf Litter/Blackwater. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Nana Rasbora.

Show 22 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Nana Rasbora live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 38 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Nana Rasbora need?

A minimum of 38 litres (tank length at least 45 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Nana Rasbora together?

Keep the aquarium between 23°C and 27°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) or Nana Rasbora aggressive?

Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) is peaceful (1/10) and Nana Rasbora is peaceful (0/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Espei Rasbora (Lambchop Rasbora) and Nana Rasbora need?

Both species overlap in the 6–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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