Danio - Zebra
Danios are small, active, and hardy freshwater fish that belong to the Danio genus, which includes popular species like Zebra Danios and Pearl Danios. Here are the requirements for keeping Danios:
Aquarium size: Danios are active swimmers and require a tank with ample swimming space. A tank with a capacity of at least 10 gallons (38 liters) is suitable for a small group of Danios. However, larger tanks are preferred, especially for species that are highly active or for larger groups.
Water parameters: Danios are adaptable to a wide range of water conditions. The ideal temperature for most Danio species ranges from 72-78°F (22-26°C). The pH level should be slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, typically between 6.5-7.5. Water hardness should be moderate, around 5-15 dGH. Providing stable water conditions is important for their well-being.
Tank setup: Create a well-decorated tank with open swimming areas and some hiding spots. Danios appreciate a mix of open space and planted areas. Provide some live or artificial plants and driftwood for cover and visual interest. Use a fine gravel or sand substrate, as Danios are bottom-dwellers and enjoy sifting through the substrate.
Filtration and water flow: Danios prefer a well-filtered tank with moderate water flow. A hang-on-back (HOB) filter or sponge filter is typically sufficient to maintain water quality. Avoid strong water currents that can stress the fish, especially for smaller species or those with long fins.
Lighting: Danios do well with moderate lighting conditions. Provide a lighting system that mimics natural day and night cycles, with a photoperiod of around 8-10 hours of light per day. Avoid intense lighting that may cause stress.
Diet: Danios are omnivorous and have a small mouth, so they prefer small food items. Offer them a varied diet that includes high-quality flake or pellet food as their staple diet. Supplement their diet with small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. They may also nibble on algae and small invertebrates in the tank.
Tank mates: Danios are generally peaceful and can be kept with other small and non-aggressive fish species. They are schooling fish, so it's best to keep them in groups of at least five or more for their well-being. Suitable tank mates include other peaceful community fish like tetras, rasboras, and dwarf gouramis.