This fish is very available and sold in most pet stores. It makes a great beginner fish but is also appealing to the veteran aquarists.
The Zebra Danio is a wonderful freshwater fish. It is one of the most lively and exciting fish to own. The fish is a great schooling fish as well, and will chase its own kind throughout the water; this is most often mistaken as fighting.
The Scientific name for this species is Brachydanio rerio. This fish is a wonderful community fish getting along with most fish of about the same size. Fully grown they range in size from 2 to 3 inches. They are normally a silver or golden color, with blue and purple lines stretching the length of their bodies.
The species is most likely found in a planted community, where is has ample space and a place to retreat. Although this fish is normally found in this environment, it is not at all needed. In fact the Zebra Danio does not need extremely demanding conditions. They can survive a pH range from 6.2 to around 7.6. The temperature in the tank can range from 68-78 degrees.
This fish is very available and sold in most pet stores. It makes a great beginner fish but is also appealing to the veteran aquarists.
Breeding the Zebra Danio is not as hard as many people think it. Many times the fish breed when given the right conditions, even when it is not intentional. The best way to do this is by placing a dozen or so danios into a small tank, with shallow water. A substrate of marbles is wonderful since the eggs will fall in between, saving them from being eaten. Once the eggs have been laid, remove the danios and place an airstone in the bottom of the tank.
Links:
http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/prod_Display.cfm?siteid=21&pCatId=941
http://www.aquariacentral.com/fishinfo/fresh/zdanio.htm
http://userpages.umbc.edu/~rrhudy1/danio.htm
Last update: 2006-02-06 10:43
Author: d9hp