The Orange Finned Danio (Danio kyathit) is a vibrant and active freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia. Renowned for its striking orange fins and dynamic swimming behavior, this species has become a favorite among aquarists. Its hardy nature and peaceful temperament make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced fishkeepers.
What makes the Orange Finned Danio appealing to aquarists?
Its vivid coloration and energetic demeanor add visual interest and liveliness to any aquarium setup.
Is the Orange Finned Danio suitable for beginners?
Yes, due to its adaptability and ease of care, it's well-suited for those new to fishkeeping.
Providing optimal care for the Orange Finned Danio involves attention to tank size, water parameters, and overall environment.
What is the minimum tank size for an Orange Finned Danio?
A minimum of 60 liters is recommended to accommodate their active swimming habits.
What are the ideal water parameters for this species?
Maintain a temperature between 20-26°C, pH levels of 6.5-7.5, and water hardness of 2-10 dGH.
Ensure the tank is equipped with efficient filtration to keep the water clean and well-oxygenated. Moderate lighting is sufficient, and incorporating live plants, rocks, and driftwood will mimic their natural habitat and provide hiding spots.
What should I feed my Orange Finned Danios?
They are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet, including high-quality flake food, small pellets, and occasional live or frozen treats like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Be mindful of their energetic nature; a secure lid is essential to prevent them from jumping out of the tank.
Originating from northern Myanmar, the Orange Finned Danio inhabits fast-flowing streams and rivers with clear, tannin-stained waters. These environments are often shaded by dense vegetation, including bamboo growth, and feature substrates composed of mud and stones. The natural habitat's dynamic flow and rich plant life contribute to the species' active behavior and adaptability.
Where is the Orange Finned Danio naturally found?
It is native to the upper Irrawaddy River and its tributaries in northern Myanmar.
What type of environment does this species prefer?
They thrive in fast-moving, clear waters with abundant vegetation and a mix of mud and stone substrates.
The Orange Finned Danio is a peaceful, shoaling species that thrives in groups of at least six individuals. Their active nature makes them excellent companions for other non-aggressive, similarly sized fish.
Can Orange Finned Danios be kept with other fish?
Yes, they are compatible with other peaceful community fish such as tetras, rasboras, and guppies.
Do they require a group to be happy?
Absolutely, keeping them in groups promotes natural behavior and reduces stress.
It's advisable to avoid housing them with larger, aggressive species that may view them as prey. Providing ample swimming space and hiding spots will help maintain a harmonious tank environment.
The Orange Finned Danio exhibits fascinating behaviors and characteristics that intrigue aquarists.
How can you distinguish between male and female Orange Finned Danios?
Males are typically smaller with more vivid orange fins, while females are larger with rounder bellies, especially when carrying eggs.
Are they known to jump out of tanks?
Yes, their energetic nature makes them prone to jumping, so a secure lid is essential.
Additionally, they are egg scatterers, releasing eggs over plants and substrate without parental care. In a well-planted tank, some fry may survive without intervention.
All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources:
Recommended Tank Size 21.1 Gallon (for groups of 6 or more) |
Minimum Group Size 6 |
Minimum Tank Volume 15.9 Gallon |
Maximum Adult Length 2 inch |
Average Adult Length 1.6 inch |
Shoaling (6+ required) Yes |
Preferred Water Type Freshwater, soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to neutral |
Temperature Range (°C) 20-26 |
pH Range 6.5-7.5 |
Water Hardness (dGH) 2-10 |
Typical Lifespan (years) 3 years |