Pearl Danio
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
A perfect beginner's fish, hardy and showy when kept in schools. Aaron Norman
Overview
Danios are very busy fish and perfect for the aquarist who likes a lively aquascape with lots of movement. The Pearl Danio is a peaceful, schooling species. The natural version of the Pearl Danio is a lovely "mother-of-pearl" species, with a pinkish-blue iridescent body. There is also a gold variety, called the Yellow Danio, which is derived from aquarium-bred stock.
Family: Cyprinidae
Other common name(s):
- Yellow Danio
Native range:
- Southeast Asia
- Myanmar
- Laos
- Sumatra
- Irrawaddy River
- Salween River
- Mekong River Basin
- Mae Khlong River
Habitat: D. albolineatus does best in a well-lighted aquarium planted on the sides and back, with lots of room in the center to swim.
Maximum length: 6.5 cm (3 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 38 L (10 gal)
Water: Freshwater 22 °C (72 °F) - 26 °C (79 °F)
General swimming level: Throughout the aquarium.
Feeding
Carnivore. In the wild, their diets consist primarily of insects and insect larvae, and in the aquarium they will accept most commercial aquarium foods, including good-quality tropical flake or granular food, as well as frozen and live foods such as Tubifex, mosquito larvae, brine shrimp and Daphnia. Will benefit from regular feedings of color-enhancing foods.
Aquarium Compatibility
Acquire a group of at least three and house with other mild-mannered fish. These are jumpers, so a tight-fitting cover is a must.
Breeding/Propagation
During frantic chases, they scatter non-adhesive eggs that fall to the bottom. Shallow water and a marble-covered bottom will prevent the parents from eating their own spawn.
Notes
A long tank is ideal for providing the room they need to stretch their fins.