Burmese Rummynose (Sawbwa resplendens)

The Burmese Rummynose Rasbora is a small, shimmering gem originating from the high-altitude Inle Lake in Myanmar. This species is unique for being entirely scaleless, giving it a smooth, polished metallic appearance. Males are exceptionally striking, featuring a ghostly blue-silver body contrasted by a brilliant "fire-engine" red nose and red-tipped tail lobes. They are active, peaceful schoolers that add a sense of refined elegance and constant movement to any specialized community or planted aquarium.

Key Information

• Common Name: Burmese Rummynose, Sawbwa Barb, Asian Rummynose

• Scientific Name: Sawbwa resplendens

• Origin: Inle Lake, Myanmar (High-altitude habitat)

• Max Size: 2.5–3.5 cm

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Temperament: Peaceful (Active schooling fish)

• Diet: Omnivore – Prefers micro-pellets, crushed flakes, and live/frozen daphnia or baby brine shrimp.

• Care Level: Moderate

Water Parameters

Parameter	Value
Temperature:	21–25°C (Prefers cooler water than most tropical fish)
pH:	7.0–8.0 (Requires alkaline water)
Hardness:	10–20 dGH (Hard water is essential)
Minimum Tank Size:	40L+

Behaviour & Tank Compatibility

The Burmese Rummynose is a social species that must be kept in a group of at least 8–10 individuals. In smaller groups, they can become shy or skittish. Males will occasionally engage in harmless "sparring" to show off their colors, but they are peaceful toward other species. They are best housed with other fish that enjoy hard, alkaline water, such as Celestichthys margaritatus (CPD), Neon Rainbowfish, or small livebearers.

Ideal Tank Setup

• Hard Water Environment: Since they originate from a limestone-rich lake, they require hard water. Using crushed coral or aragonite in the filter can help maintain these levels.

• Moderate Temperature: Avoid keeping them in very warm water; they thrive in room-temperature setups.

• Planted Tank with Open Space: They appreciate the cover of plants like Vallisneria or Hygrophila but need the middle of the tank clear for schooling.

• Stable Conditions: As they are scaleless, they are more sensitive to rapid changes in water chemistry and certain medications.

• Dark Background: A dark background will make the metallic blue of the males truly stand out.