Devario malabaricus

Devario malabaricus, the Malabar Devario or Malabar Giant Danio, is one of the largest members of the danionid group, reaching 10 cm with the active, streamlined build typical of the genus. It is endemic to the Western Ghats of southern India, where it inhabits fast-flowing rivers and streams in forested catchments. The body is strikingly patterned with bold blue-silver horizontal stripes on a silvery ground, with orange-tinted fin accents in breeding males.

In the aquarium D. malabaricus is a powerful swimmer requiring generous tank dimensions. A group of eight or more in a well-filtered 150-litre or larger aquarium produces a dynamic, impressive display. It is peaceful with most other fish of similar size or larger, though its active swimming may stress very slow or delicate species. Its Western Ghats origin means slightly cooler and soft water suits it best.

Breeding is similar to other large danionids: eggs scattered over gravel or plants with no parental care. Conditioning with live foods, a slight water change, and increased current reliably triggers spawning. Fry are larger than most danio fry and accept baby brine shrimp from day one.

Water: 20–26 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft; well-oxygenated with moderate to strong flow. Tank: 120 L minimum; large open swimming area; strong filtration; moderate current. Feeding: Omnivore; pellets, flake, Daphnia, bloodworm, brine shrimp; excellent appetite. Breeding: Scatter-spawner over gravel or plants; condition on live food; remove adults. Compatibility: Peaceful with medium and larger species; too active for very slow or delicate tankmates.