Asian Rummynose Tetra (Naked Rasbora) - Sawba Resplenden

Asian Rummy Nose Rasbora | A Stunning Cooler-Water Nano Fish From Myanmar

The Asian Rummy Nose Rasbora (Sawbwa resplendens), also known as the Sawbwa Barb or Burmese Rummy Nose, is one of the most distinctive and captivating nano fish in the freshwater aquarium hobby. Endemic to the shallow, plant-rich waters of Lake Inle in Myanmar's Shan State, this peaceful little fish is prized for the striking sexual dimorphism between males and females — males display a vivid red nose and brilliantly coloured fins that contrast beautifully against their iridescent silver-blue body, while females are more subtly coloured in soft silver. In a large school under good aquarium lighting, the effect is genuinely spectacular.

Despite sometimes being called a rasbora or tetra, Sawbwa resplendens actually belongs to its own unique genus — making it a genuinely one-of-a-kind species in the hobby.

An Important Conservation Note

Wild populations of Sawbwa resplendens in Lake Inle are unfortunately under pressure due to habitat loss and water quality degradation. Purchasing tank-bred specimens where available supports sustainable practices and helps reduce pressure on wild populations.

Asian Rummy Nose Rasbora Care Guide

Care at a Glance

• Scientific name: Sawbwa resplendens
• Also known as: Sawbwa Barb, Burmese Rummy Nose, Asian Rummynose, Naked Micro Rasbora
• Adult size: up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) — males smaller and more colourful than females
• Minimum tank size: 15 gallons (55 litres) for a small school
• Temperature: 68–77°F (20–25°C) — a cooler water species; avoid temperatures above 79°F (26°C)
• pH: 6.8–7.8
• Hardness: soft to moderately hard
• Best kept in groups of 8 or more
• Lifespan: 3–5 years with good care

Asian Rummy Nose Rasbora Tank Setup

A well-planted aquarium with dark substrate, floating plants to diffuse lighting, and gentle water flow reflects the calm, vegetated environment of Lake Inle beautifully. Dense planting provides cover and helps these naturally timid fish feel secure and confident — a well-planted tank makes a noticeable difference to how boldly they display and school. Clean, stable water conditions are essential, as this species is sensitive to water quality fluctuations and elevated nitrates. Regular water changes of 20–30% weekly are strongly recommended.

Feeding Your Asian Rummy Nose Rasboras

Omnivores with a preference for small, meaty foods. A high quality micro flake or nano pellet makes a solid staple, supplemented regularly with frozen or live foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops, and micro worms. Their small mouths mean food size matters — crush any flake food finely before feeding. A varied, protein-rich diet will bring out the full intensity of the males' red colouration.

How Many Asian Rummy Nose Rasboras Should You Keep?

These are a true shoaling species and should always be kept in groups of 8 or more. In a large group, males will constantly posture and compete for dominance — fanning their fins, intensifying their colour, and displaying to one another in a fascinating and dynamic way. The larger the school, the more impressive and natural the behaviour.

Asian Rummy Nose Rasbora Tank Mates

• Other small, peaceful nano fish such as Ember Tetras, Chili Rasboras, and small danios
• Pygmy Corydoras and other micro bottom dwellers
• Dwarf shrimp such as Neocaridina — safe with adults, use caution with shrimp fry
• Nerite snails and other small snail species
• Avoid large, boisterous, or fast-moving fish that will stress or outcompete them
• Avoid fin-nipping species of any kind