The zebra danio is a small, fast minnow from the streams and floodplains of South Asia, marked with horizontal blue-gold stripes.
Widely used as a laboratory model organism, it is one of the hardiest and most adaptable aquarium fish available.
It is an excellent beginner species, tolerant of a wide temperature range including cooler rooms.
Avoid dyed or hybrid colour variants where possible, and never keep it in a tiny tank, as its constant activity demands swimming space.
Housing
Keep a shoal of at least six in 75 litres (20 gallons) or more, well filtered.
They thrive at 18-24C and do not strictly need a heater in a stable, room-temperature home, which suits unheated setups in temperate climates.
These are powerful, restless swimmers that need length rather than height for laps along the tank.
They tolerate a wide range of water chemistry and appreciate some current and a secure lid, as they are accomplished jumpers.
Diet
Zebra danios are opportunistic omnivores that feed at the surface and in midwater.
A quality flake or micro-pellet works as the staple, supplemented with frozen or live daphnia, brine shrimp and bloodworm for variety.
Feed small amounts once or twice daily, only what is taken in a minute or two.
Their fast metabolism and constant activity mean they rarely refuse food, so portion carefully to avoid overfeeding and fouling the water.
Health
Danios are robust and disease-resistant, with most ailments arising from overcrowding, poor water quality or excessive heat rather than the fish themselves.
Ich and fin rot are the usual concerns and clear readily with corrected conditions.
Keeping them too warm for long periods can shorten their lifespan, so avoid over-heating the tank.
Quarantine new arrivals, maintain weekly partial water changes, and fit a tight lid, since stress can prompt jumping.
Temperament
Active, peaceful and confident, zebra danios shoal loosely and dash around the upper levels of the tank.
Their speed and constant motion can unsettle very timid or slow species in a community.
They can nip long, flowing fins when understocked, so keep six or more to channel that energy within the group.
Pair them with similarly active, sturdy fish rather than delicate or long-finned tankmates such as bettas or fancy guppies.
Beginner
Beginner
Beginner
Beginner
Beginner
Beginner