Draped Fin Barb Care Guide

Pectenocypris korthausae, commonly referred to as the Double Orange Spot Torpedo 'Rasbora' or Korthausae Rasbora, is a small and vibrantly colored species of freshwater fish endemic to Southeast Asia. Despite being colloquially called a 'rasbora', it belongs to the Cyprinidae family, which encompasses a wide range of species known for their adaptability and diverse appearances. This particular species is appreciated in the aquarium hobby for its striking appearance, characterized by a slender, torpedo-shaped body with prominent orange spots that provide a striking contrast against its silver-blue body coloration.

Creating an optimal environment for Pectenocypris korthausae involves replicating the conditions of their natural habitat as closely as possible. This includes setting up a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and open swimming areas to accommodate their active swimming behavior and schooling nature. The substrate can be varied, from sand to fine gravel, complemented by the addition of driftwood, rocks, and leaf litter to mimic the natural waters where they originate. Soft, slightly acidic to neutral water conditions are ideal, and the aquarium should be maintained with stable, tropical temperatures to promote the health and well-being of the Korthausae Rasbora.

The diet of the Double Orange Spot Torpedo 'Rasbora' is omnivorous, with a natural inclination towards small invertebrates and plant matter. In captivity, they should be provided with a varied diet that includes high-quality flake foods, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Offering a mix of dietary items ensures they receive all the necessary nutrients for optimal health and mimics the diversity of their natural diet.

Breeding Pectenocypris korthausae can be a rewarding experience, as they exhibit interesting spawning behaviors. They are egg scatterers, releasing their eggs among fine-leaved plants or substrate. To encourage spawning, a separate breeding tank with optimal water conditions and plenty of plant cover can be beneficial. The fry are small and should be fed infusoria or commercially available fry foods until they are large enough to accept larger fare.

Caring for the Double Orange Spot Torpedo 'Rasbora' involves regular maintenance routines to ensure the water quality remains high, with frequent water changes and effective filtration. Their peaceful nature and small size make them excellent candidates for community tanks, where they can be kept with other similarly sized and non-aggressive fish species. However, their specific dietary, environmental, and social needs should be carefully considered to ensure a harmonious and healthy aquarium.

In summary, Pectenocypris korthausae, or the Double Orange Spot Torpedo 'Rasbora', offers aquarists the chance to keep a small, peaceful, and beautifully colored species that adds both visual interest and activity to the freshwater aquarium. While their care requires attention to their dietary, environmental, and social needs, the rewards of keeping Korthausae Rasboras include the enjoyment of their striking appearance and the dynamic presence they bring to the aquatic setting.