Today, we’re diving into the top five Rasboras in the world. You can find species profiles for all of them below. If you’re looking for more details, feel free to reach out. If you keep Rasboras, what are your top five? Leave your list in the comment section below.

For this ranking, I’ve used a scoring system based on color, hardiness, cost, and behavior. You’ll notice that the point difference between #5 and #1 is minimal.

I could easily see someone swapping the order completely. All of these are fantastic fish that stay small. If you’ve never kept Rasboras before, they are small fish with great personality. They’re very peaceful and don’t require large tanks, but it’s really great to keep them in larger groups so they feel more comfortable. We’d love to hear from you—what’s your top five? Hope you enjoy the video.

#5: Brilliant Green Rasbora

The first fish on our list of the top five Rasboras on the face of the earth is the Brilliant Green Rasbora, also known as the Brilliant Rasbora.

This is an outstanding fish, and we’ve had them in our fish room for a while.

How did they rank?

• Color: 5
• Hardiness: 8
• Cost: 8
• Behavior: 8
• Total: 29 out of 40 possible points

While their color isn’t as vibrant as some others on this list, their greenish-yellow body with a red spot on their tail is still beautiful.

They rank high in hardiness because they thrive in a wide range of water parameters, making them a great choice for beginners.

They are also one of the most affordable Rasboras, typically costing just a few dollars each. However, remember that you’ll need a minimum group of 6, and they really shine in larger schools of 15-20.

In terms of behavior, they are the best schoolers on this list. They tend to stay together, making them ideal for a 20-gallon long tank or larger.

#4: Green Kubotai Rasbora

This wonderful little fish offers a stunning fluorescent green color that’s unique in the aquarium world. It’s a standout in any planted tank.

How did they rank?

• Color: 8
• Hardiness: 7
• Cost: 7
• Behavior: 7
• Total: 29 out of 40 possible points

Although technically tied with the Brilliant Green Rasbora, I prioritized the vibrant green color, which makes them more appealing.

These Rasboras are slightly more expensive, ranging from $5 to $8 each, but their hardiness and peaceful nature make them worth it.

One drawback is their lack of schooling behavior. Unlike the Brilliant Green Rasbora, these fish tend to spread out more in the tank.

#3: Chili Rasbora

The Chili Rasbora is tiny but vibrant, with a deep red and a hint of purple.

How did they rank?

• Color: 8
• Hardiness: 8
• Cost: 7
• Behavior: 8
• Total: 31 out of 40 possible points

They’re perfect for nano tanks, as they max out at just under an inch. A group of 10 can thrive even in a 5-gallon setup.

They’re an excellent choice for aquarists who love synchronized schooling behavior, second only to the Brilliant Green Rasbora.

#2: Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)

Although technically a Danio, this fish shares many similarities with Rasboras, so it makes our list.

How did they rank?

• Color: 9
• Hardiness: 8
• Cost: 7
• Behavior: 8
• Total: 32 out of 40 possible points

With their deep blue bodies, white spots, and red accents, these fish are visually stunning, especially when males display their fins.

While they do exhibit some schooling, they are more independent than the Chili or Brilliant Green Rasboras.

#1: Rummy Nose Rasbora (Sawbwa Rasbora)

Finally, my favorite Rasbora is the Rummy Nose Rasbora.

How did they rank?

• Color: 10
• Hardiness: 9
• Cost: 7
• Behavior: 7
• Total: 33 out of 40 possible points

Their vibrant blue bodies with orange faces make them the most colorful Rasbora on this list. However, note that females tend to be more silverish-green and lack the vibrant orange of the males.

These Rasboras have a quirky, jerky swimming style and enjoy picking at plants and decorations.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t kept Rasboras yet, they’re an amazing addition to any small or medium-sized aquarium.

What’s your favorite Rasbora? Share your top five in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!

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