Zebra Danio's

One of the most hardy and active of aquarium fish, the Zebra danio can be easily recognised by its distinctive horizontal stripes. The slim torpedo shaped silver/gold shape has blue/purple stripes running from gill to tail.

Their general small size of about two and half inches, and peaceful nature, make them an excellent addition to any community aquarium. Both sexes have two pairs of barbells and the same stripes, but females are usually larger and more rounded than the males.

A variation on the Zebra danio is the popular leopard variety. The leopard variety is characterised by a peppering of black spots over the entire body. All varieties thrive in schools.

Diet Zebra danios are omnivorous, accepting most flake foods and mostly undemanding in their diet. From time to time they particularly enjoy small live or frozen inverts, and fresh vegetable matter.

Habitat/Care Choosing to spend most of their time primarily at the surface and enjoy fast moving waters. Being a hardy fish they are very adaptable and will accept most water conditions, preferring temperatures in the 64-75 degree range. They require good lighting and being an active playful fish they need lots of open space to swim in. in addition some plants or barrels are good as these are also used for playing.

Breeding

Ideal for beginners, as they are very easy to breed, Zebra Danios are somewhat unique, as they can be quite loyal to their chosen mate. Mated pairs remain together, and rarely spawn with others, even if one mate dies.

The breeding tank should be set up with shallow water, approximately six inches deep. Fine-leafed plants should be used in the breeding tank or a spawning grid on the bottom. Course gravel works well, as the eggs will fall between the gravel pieces and will be protected from the adult fish, which have been known to eat their own eggs.

Before any spawning takes place the temperature should be 78 degrees or less, and can be triggered by raising the water a couple of degrees near dawn. 300 to 500 eggs will be scattered across the bottom and on the plants. Remove breeders after spawning, as they will consume the young.

The fry will hatch in two days. They are very tiny, and can easily be lost when changing water, so take care when maintaining the grow-out tank. Feed the young commercially prepared fry food, or finely crushed dry foods. Powdered egg may also be added to the fry food to promote growth.

For more information on setting up an aquarium Click Zebra Danio