Can Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Red Dwarf Rasbora Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 11, 2026
Not Recommended

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Red Dwarf Rasbora are not recommended as tank mates due to piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates.. Housing these species together is likely to result in stress, health problems, or direct harm to one or both fish.


At a Glance

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)

Datnioides microlepis

Red Dwarf Rasbora

Microrasbora rubescens

🐠Family Group
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Oddballs
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Cyprinids
Temperament
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
24–28°C
Red Dwarf Rasbora
20–26°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
6.5–7.5
Red Dwarf Rasbora
7–8.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
5–15
Red Dwarf Rasbora
8–20
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Freshwater Only
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Moderate
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 680 L
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
680 L
Red Dwarf Rasbora
40 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
MiddleBottom
Red Dwarf Rasbora
MiddleTop
🏷️Behavior Tags
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorAggressive to same species/look-alikesShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Red Dwarf 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.

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Red Dwarf Rasbora
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Red Dwarf Rasbora is peaceful (1/10). This notable difference means Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) may occasionally assert dominance over Red Dwarf Rasbora.

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Red Dwarf Rasbora both frequent the Middle (Open Water) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

There is a critical concern: the Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish) behaviour of one fish directly conflicts with the Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk) trait of the other — piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates..

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Shrimp eaters may also prey on very small nano fish.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 26°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7 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 8–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Red Dwarf Rasbora together, plan for an aquarium of at least 680 litres with a minimum length of 180 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

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

Why This Pairing Usually Fails in Practice

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Red Dwarf Rasbora are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Red Dwarf Rasbora.

Diet & Feeding

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like Red Dwarf Rasbora.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Red Dwarf Rasbora live together?

No. This combination is not recommended. Key incompatibilities — such as critical behavioural conflicts — make cohabitation unsafe.

What size tank do Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Red Dwarf Rasbora need?

A minimum of 680 litres (tank length at least 180 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 Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Red Dwarf Rasbora together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 26°C. A target of around 25.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) or Red Dwarf Rasbora aggressive?

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) is moderately assertive (6/10) and Red Dwarf Rasbora is peaceful (1/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.

What pH do Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) and Red Dwarf Rasbora need?

Both species overlap in the 7–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.

Editorial Review

Guidarium Editorial Desk

Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.

Last reviewed
May 11, 2026
Last updated
May 11, 2026
Issues or corrections?
Contact the editorial team

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