Celestial Pearl Danio

Danio margaritatus took the aquarium world by storm upon its 2006 description, initially known as 'Galaxy Rasbora' before its true genus was established. Native to shallow, vegetated pools in Shan State, Myanmar, it prefers cool, clear water with moderate hardness. Males are vividly coloured and compete actively but harmlessly; captive breeding has made it widely available and sustainable. It thrives in a well-planted nano tank with a dark substrate.

Water: 20–26 °C, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard (GH 4–15). Tank: 30 L minimum; open foreground, planted borders, dark substrate. Feeding: Omnivore — micro pellets, Cyclops, baby brine shrimp, crushed flake. Behaviour: Active schooler; males spar harmlessly; keep 8+ to distribute attention. Compatibility: Excellent with nano shrimp, pygmy corys, and other small community fish.