The Harlequin Rasbora Hengelii, commonly known as the Copper Harlequin, is a small, peaceful schooling fish prized for its warm copper-orange body and distinctive black wedge marking accented with an iridescent orange glow. Native to slow-moving blackwater streams in Southeast Asia, Copper Harlequins are hardy, calm, and ideal for planted community aquariums. Their subtle colouring intensifies in soft, slightly acidic water and when kept in proper schools. Physical Characteristics: Adult Size: 3–4 cm Body Shape: Slim and laterally compressed Colouration: Copper-orange body with black wedge marking and orange iridescence Sexual Dimorphism: Females slightly rounder when mature Lifespan: 3–5 years Physical Characteristics: Adult Size: 3–4 cm Body Shape: Slim and laterally compressed Colouration: Copper-orange body with black wedge marking and orange iridescence Sexual Dimorphism: Females slightly rounder when mature Lifespan: 3–5 years Aquarium Requirements: Minimum Tank Size: 40 litres Water Temperature: 22–28°C pH Range: 5.5–7.0 Water Hardness: 2–10 dGH Water Flow: Gentle Substrate: Sand or fine gravel Aquascape: Live plants, driftwood, shaded areas Lighting: Low to moderate Feeding: Harlequin Rasbora Hengelii are omnivorous and easy to feed: High-quality micro pellets Fine flakes Frozen foods (daphnia, brine shrimp, cyclops) Occasional live foods Feed small amounts once or twice daily. Compatibility: Suitable Tank Mates: Other rasboras Small tetras Corydoras catfish Otocinclus Dwarf gouramis Avoid Housing With: Large or aggressive fish Fin-nippers Fast, boisterous species Breeding: Spawning Type: Egg scatterer Breeding Difficulty: Moderate Breeding Notes: Spawns under broad-leaf plants Eggs fall onto substrate Adults may eat eggs; breeding tank recommended Special Considerations: Colours intensify in soft, slightly acidic water Best visual impact when kept in groups Sensitive to sudden water parameter changes Excellent choice for planted and blackwater aquarium *Product Photo is for reference only. Exact fish may vary in size and colour
