The Danio margaritatus, known as the Celestial Pearl Danio, is a small, colorful freshwater fish native to Myanmar, popular among aquarium enthusiasts.
Overview
Danio margaritatus, commonly known as the Celestial Pearl Danio or Galaxy Rasbora, is a small, vibrant freshwater fish native to the lakes of Myanmar. It is prized for its striking appearance, with a deep blue body adorned with pearl-like spots and bright red-orange fins. These fish thrive in well-planted tanks and are a popular choice among aquarists due to their peaceful nature and captivating colors.
Tank Requirements
Celestial Pearl Danios require a well-maintained aquarium with a minimum size of 10 gallons. The water temperature should be kept between 22-26°C (72-79°F), with a pH level ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. They prefer a heavily planted tank with a soft substrate and low to moderate water flow. It's important to include hiding spots such as rocks or driftwood to mimic their natural habitat. Good filtration is essential to maintain water quality, but strong currents should be avoided.
Feeding and Diet
In the wild, Celestial Pearl Danios feed on small insects, larvae, and plankton. In an aquarium, they should be offered a varied diet consisting of high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Feeding them small amounts multiple times a day will help maintain their health and vibrant coloration.
Care and Maintenance
Regular care for Celestial Pearl Danios includes weekly water changes of around 20-30% to keep the water parameters stable. Monitor the water quality frequently and clean the substrate to prevent waste buildup. These fish are generally hardy, but they can be sensitive to poor water conditions, so maintaining a clean environment is crucial. Watch for signs of stress or illness, such as color fading or lethargy, and address any issues promptly.
Compatibility
Celestial Pearl Danios are peaceful fish that do well in community tanks with other small, non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include small tetras, rasboras, and shrimp. They should be kept in groups of at least six to promote natural schooling behavior. Avoid housing them with larger, aggressive fish that may view them as prey.
Breeding
Breeding Celestial Pearl Danios in captivity is relatively straightforward. Provide a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop where females can deposit eggs. The water should be slightly warmer, around 26-28°C (79-82°F). After spawning, remove the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs will hatch in 2-3 days, and the fry can be fed infusoria or finely crushed flake food until they are large enough to eat brine shrimp.