[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Cyprinids – Greater Scissortail (Rasbora caudimaculata)

Despite two of its common names, R. caudimaculata is no larger than its more widely available close relative R. trilineata (the Scissortail). Both are very attractive fish when conditions are to their liking. The Greater Scissortail is a long, slender fish with a dark green shiny body. The tail fins have black markings at the tip. Males are more slender than females and have additional yellow coloration in the tail fins.

Other common names

• Giant Scissortail, Spot-tailed Scissortail

Subfamily

• Rasborinae (Danioninae)

Distribution

• Southeast Asia.

Size

• Up to 4 3/4in (12cm) reported, but usually smaller. Behavior: An active shoaler with excellent jumping ability. Diet: All foods accepted, particularly livefoods.

Aquarium

• Roomy, well- covered tank with ample swimming areas and plant thickets. Water chemistry not critical. Temperature range: 68-77 F (20-25 C), slightly higher for breeding.

Breeding

• Egg-scattering species; breeding infrequent in aquaria.