The Sundadanio axelrodi, often marketed under the name "Blue Axelrodi" or "Blue Neon Rasbora", is a very small tropical fish native to the peaty areas of South-East Asia. The "Blue" form is particularly popular for its bright metallic blue colour, and makes a great addition to nano planted aquariums.

Behaviour & maintenance

This is a :

• very peaceful and gregarious, and should be kept in groups of at least 8 to 10 individuals to ensure it is comfortable.
• Suitable for small aquariums, but requires excellent water stability.
• Very active in the middle to upper zones of the tank, appreciated for its metallic reflections in schools.

Diet

Omnivorous with a tendency towards micro-predation:

• Micro-granules or very fine flaked food suitable for nano fish.
• Micro worms, artemia nauplii or daphnia, frozen or live, to stimulate coloration.
• Varying the feed will help maintain the liveliness and colour of the shoal.

Water quality

• Temperature: 22 - 27°C
• pH: 5.5 - 7.0, preferably soft water, slightly acidic to neutral.
• GH: low to moderate (soft water). Low conductivity recommended.

Decor & environment

For a good hold:

• Fine sand or very fine gravel, to avoid stressing these micro fish.
• Floating plants or plants with stems to filter the light, darker and quieter area.
• Minimum volume recommended: 30-40 L for a group of 8-10 individuals, to ensure stability and natural behaviour.

Maintenance sheet

AquaBota tip

This small fish is at its best when kept in a well-planted tank with subdued lighting and a dark bottom. Before adding, make sure that the water is stabilised, well cycled and that the parameters are stable (this remains a sensitive species). Avoid fish that are too big or fast, which could stress or swallow these miniature subjects.