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Zebra Danios (Danio rerio)

Page 2: Zebra Danios (Danio rerio)

Care Requirements

  • Water Parameters: Zebra Danios thrive in a pH range of 6.5-7.5. They are quite adaptable and can tolerate a range of water hardness.
  • Temperature: The ideal temperature range for Zebra Danios is 18-24°C (64-75°F). They can tolerate lower temperatures compared to many tropical fish, making them suitable for unheated aquariums in warmer climates.
  • Tank Setup: A well-planted tank with open swimming areas is ideal. Zebra Danios enjoy having plants to swim through and open spaces to dart around. A dark substrate can help enhance their striking coloration.
  • Water Conditions: Zebra Danios are hardy fish but still benefit from regular water changes and stable water conditions. Good filtration and water movement are also appreciated.

Feeding Habits

  • Diet: Zebra Danios are omnivorous. They thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality flake food, small pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
  • Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice daily, providing only what they can consume within a few minutes to avoid overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Behavior

  • Activity: Zebra Danios are very active and energetic swimmers, often seen darting around the tank. They are known for their playful behavior and can bring a lot of movement to the aquarium.
  • Social Structure: They are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 5-6 to reduce stress and promote natural behaviors.
  • Breeding: Zebra Danios breed readily in home aquariums. They are egg scatterers and will lay eggs among plants or on the substrate. A separate breeding tank with a spawning mop or fine-leaved plants can help protect the eggs from being eaten.

Tank Mates

  • Compatibility: Zebra Danios are peaceful and can be kept with other small, non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rasboras, guppies, and small catfish.
  • Avoid: Avoid keeping them with larger or aggressive fish that may bully or harm them.

Additional Tips

  • High Activity: Because of their high activity level, Zebra Danios need plenty of space to swim. A long tank is preferable to a tall one to provide adequate swimming room.
  • Water Movement: They appreciate good water movement, which can be provided by a filter or air stone.
  • Observation: Regularly check for signs of stress or illness, such as lethargy or clamped fins, and take prompt action if needed.

Including Zebra Danios in your aquarium adds a lively and dynamic presence, enhancing the overall energy and vibrancy of the tank environment with their constant activity and striking appearance.

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