Can Rummynose Rasbora and Threadfin Rainbowfish Live Together?

Reviewed by Guidarium Editorial DeskUpdated May 11, 2026
Possible with Caution

Keeping Rummynose Rasbora and Threadfin Rainbowfish together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 60 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Rummynose Rasbora

Sawbwa resplendens

Threadfin Rainbowfish

Iriatherina werneri

🐠Family Group
Rummynose Rasbora
Cyprinids
Threadfin Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish
Temperament
Rummynose Rasbora
Peaceful (2/10)
Threadfin Rainbowfish
Peaceful (1/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Rummynose Rasbora
20–25°C
Threadfin Rainbowfish
23–29°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Rummynose Rasbora
7.3–8.5
Threadfin Rainbowfish
5.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Rummynose Rasbora
10–20
Threadfin Rainbowfish
1–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Rummynose Rasbora
Freshwater Only
Threadfin Rainbowfish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Rummynose Rasbora
Moderate
Threadfin Rainbowfish
Low
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 60 L
Rummynose Rasbora
60 L
Threadfin Rainbowfish
60 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Rummynose Rasbora
Middle
Threadfin Rainbowfish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Rummynose Rasbora
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Hyperactive / Fast Swimmer
Threadfin Rainbowfish
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Jumper (Lid Required)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
Stocking calculator

Can your tank handle Rummynose Rasbora and Threadfin Rainbowfish?

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.

Rummynose Rasbora
Threadfin Rainbowfish
Test both in my tank

Behaviour & Temperament

Rummynose Rasbora is a peaceful species (2/10), while Threadfin Rainbowfish is peaceful (1/10). This modest difference means Rummynose Rasbora may occasionally assert dominance over Threadfin Rainbowfish.

Rummynose Rasbora and Threadfin Rainbowfish 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.

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

Worth noting: Threadfin Rainbowfish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

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 25°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.3 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 10–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Rummynose Rasbora and Threadfin Rainbowfish together, plan for an aquarium of at least 60 litres with a minimum length of 60 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, Plants - Floating. 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 Needs Extra Planning in Practice

This pairing usually fails when the tank is treated like a standard mixed community and the caution flags are ignored. Rummynose Rasbora and Threadfin Rainbowfish need extra room, more cover, and closer observation during the first few weeks so small aggression, feeding, or territory issues do not snowball into a long-term problem.

Suitable Tank Sizes

Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Rummynose Rasbora and Threadfin Rainbowfish.

Show 19 more tank sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Rummynose Rasbora and Threadfin Rainbowfish live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 60 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Rummynose Rasbora and Threadfin Rainbowfish need?

A minimum of 60 litres (tank length at least 60 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 Rummynose Rasbora and Threadfin Rainbowfish together?

Keep the aquarium between 23°C and 25°C. A target of around 24.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Rummynose Rasbora or Threadfin Rainbowfish aggressive?

Rummynose Rasbora is peaceful (2/10) and Threadfin Rainbowfish is peaceful (1/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Rummynose Rasbora and Threadfin Rainbowfish need?

Both species overlap in the 7.3–7.5 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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