Queen danio
Introduction
The Queen danio (Devario regina), also known as Fowler's danio, is a captivating freshwater fish cherished by aquarists for its vibrant coloration and dynamic behavior. With a sleek, silver body adorned with green and yellow longitudinal stripes, this species adds a lively presence to any aquarium. Its active nature and relatively straightforward care requirements make it an appealing choice for both novice and intermediate fishkeepers.
Care and Environment
Providing optimal care for the Queen danio involves replicating its natural habitat conditions within the aquarium.
What is the minimum tank size suitable for a Queen danio?
A minimum tank size of 114 liters is recommended to accommodate a small group of Queen danios, ensuring they have ample space to swim and exhibit natural behaviors.
What are the ideal water parameters for Queen danios?
Maintain water temperatures between 23°C and 26°C, with a pH range of 6.1 to 7.9, and water hardness between 4 to 18°N (71.43 to 321.43 ppm) to keep Queen danios healthy and comfortable.
How should the aquarium be set up for Queen danios?
Use sand or fine gravel as substrate and incorporate rocks or driftwood to provide hiding spots. Adding hardy aquatic plants like Anubias can enhance the environment, but ensure open swimming areas are available. Moderate lighting and a strong filtration system that creates a gentle current will mimic their natural riverine habitat.
Queen danios are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet. Offer high-quality flake or pellet foods supplemented with live or frozen options such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Feed small amounts two to three times daily, ensuring they consume the food within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding.
Regular maintenance is crucial. Perform weekly water changes of at least 20% to maintain water quality and monitor parameters consistently. Queen danios are hardy but can be sensitive to sudden changes, so introduce any adjustments gradually.
Origin and Habitat
Queen danios are native to South and Southeast Asia, specifically found in Thailand, Malaysia, and parts of the Mekong River basin. They inhabit fast-flowing, clear streams and rivers with sandy substrates and high oxygen levels. These environments are often surrounded by dense vegetation, providing both shelter and feeding grounds. The water in these regions is typically warm, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 26°C, and exhibits a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Temperament and Compatibility
Queen danios are peaceful, active, and shoaling fish, best kept in groups of at least six to promote natural behaviors and reduce stress. Their energetic nature means they are constantly on the move, which can be intimidating to more timid species.
Are Queen danios suitable for community tanks?
Yes, they are compatible with other active, similarly sized fish such as barbs, rasboras, and other danios. Avoid housing them with slow-moving or long-finned species, as their activity may cause stress or unintentional fin nipping.
How can I ensure a harmonious tank environment with Queen danios?
Provide ample swimming space and maintain a well-structured environment with hiding spots to allow all inhabitants to establish territories and retreat when needed. Monitoring interactions and adjusting tank mates as necessary will help maintain a peaceful community.
Interesting Facts
Queen danios are known for their remarkable adaptability, thriving in various water conditions, which makes them resilient and suitable for a range of aquarists. Their schooling behavior not only provides safety in numbers but also creates a mesmerizing display of synchronized swimming in the aquarium.
Did you know that Queen danios are egg scatterers?
Yes, during spawning, they scatter non-adhesive eggs among plants or over substrates. To protect the eggs from being eaten by adults, it's advisable to use a separate breeding tank or provide dense vegetation where eggs can fall out of reach.
Are Queen danios commonly available in the aquarium trade?
While they are not as widely available as some other danio species, specialized aquatic retailers or breeders may stock them. Their unique appearance and behavior make them a sought-after addition for enthusiasts looking to diversify their tanks.
Sources
All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources: