The Burmese Rummynose Tetra or Sawbwa Barb (Sawbwa resplendens) is a small and vibrant freshwater fish that hails from the waters of Myanmar. Known for their striking coloration and peaceful demeanor, these fish are an excellent addition to a community tank.
Appearance:
The Burmese Rummynose is notable for its striking contrast between its body and head coloration. Males tend to have silver bodies with a distinctive reddish or pinkish hue on the nose, while females are generally duller and lack the bright coloration. Despite their small size, these fish add a burst of color and elegance to any tank.
Natural Habitat:
In the wild, Burmese Rummynose Tetras are found in freshwater lakes and streams in Myanmar. They prefer slow-moving waters with ample vegetation, which provides shelter and promotes natural behavior. Mimicking these conditions in an aquarium will help them feel secure and display their best colors.
Tank Requirements:
Sawbwa Barbs are best kept in a well-planted aquarium with open swimming spaces and shaded areas. A tank of at least 40 liters is recommended for a small school, as they are schooling fish and feel more comfortable in groups of 6 or more. The pH of the water should be maintained between 6.0 and 7.5, and the temperature should be kept within a tropical range of 24-28°C.
Tank Mates:
These peaceful fish do well with other small, non-aggressive species. Ideal tank mates include other small Tetras, Rasboras, and peaceful species like Guppies and Corydoras. Avoid keeping them with larger, aggressive species that may bully or eat them due to their small size.
Diet:
Burmese Rummynose Tetras are omnivores and will readily accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. A varied diet will help enhance their coloration and maintain their health.
Behavior:
These fish are active and playful, often seen darting around the tank in small groups. Males can be slightly territorial during breeding, but they are generally peaceful and make excellent additions to a community aquarium.
Breeding:
Sawbwa Barbs are egg layers and can be bred in captivity with some effort. They require specific water conditions and a spawning site, such as dense vegetation or spawning mops. After laying their eggs, the adults should be removed from the breeding tank to prevent them from eating the eggs. The fry will hatch in a few days and can be fed infusoria or liquid fry food until they are large enough to accept baby brine shrimp.
 
Species Overview:
Species: Sawbwa resplendens
Common Names: Burmese Rummynose Tetra, Sawbwa Barb
Origin: Myanmar
Diet: Omnivore
pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
Temperature: Tropical 24-28°C
Max Size: Approximately 4 cm
Sex: Un-sexed