How To Care For Barred Danio
The Barred Danio (Devario pathirana) is a stunning freshwater fish with distinct vertical black and gold stripes along its body. Native to the slow-moving streams and rivers of Sri Lanka, this species thrives in a planted tank setup that mimics its natural habitat.
Barred Danios are slender with a torpedo-shaped body, adorned with alternating dark and golden-yellow bands. Their fins are mostly translucent, with males appearing slightly more vibrant than females, particularly during breeding.
A highly active schooling fish, the Barred Danio displays peaceful behavior, making it suitable for community tanks. These fish are fast swimmers and prefer the upper levels of the aquarium, often darting around in synchronized movements.
The tank should have a soft substrate, ample plants, and areas of open swimming space. Rocks, driftwood, and leaf litter can be added to replicate their natural environment. Good filtration and gentle water flow are essential, as they originate from well-oxygenated waters.
The Barred Danio is moderately hardy, requiring stable water parameters and a clean environment. Weekly water changes (20–30%) help maintain water quality. Keeping them in groups of six or more reduces stress and encourages natural behavior.
These fish are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet, including high-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphnia. Feeding should occur 1–2 times daily in small portions.
Breeding Barred Danios is relatively straightforward. A separate breeding tank with fine-leafed plants or a spawning mop is recommended. After spawning, remove the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs. The fry hatch within 24-48 hours and require infusoria or finely crushed flakes initially.
Barred Danios are a delightful addition to any community aquarium, offering vibrant movement and beauty while being relatively easy to care for. Their active schooling behavior ensures they are always a centerpiece in the tank
Barred Danio is a fascinating aquarium fish that stands out with its vibrant colors. It belongs to the family Cyprinidae and is native to the Asia.
This species has a care level of Moderate and requires a minimum tank size of 114 Litres (30 US G.). It typically reaches a size of 6-8 cm (2.4-3.1").
Preferred water parameters include a specific gravity (sg) of Freshwater, pH ranging from 7.0 - 7.8, and a temperature between 22 -25 °C (71.6-77°F). Additionally, maintaining water hardness within the range of 8-15 °d is essential.
For stocking, the recommended ratio is 2:3 M:F. The Barred Danio is widely available and has a diverse diet that includes OmnivorePellet FoodsFlake FoodsLive FoodsOther (See article).
With a life span of 2-5 years, this species is known for its very easy care requirements. It is an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Providing a well-maintained tank environment with suitable water conditions will ensure the health and vibrancy of this captivating species.
