Frankei Danio

The Frankei Danio (Danio frankei) is a captive-developed form closely allied to the Zebra Danio, featuring a gold-yellow base colour overlaid with irregular dark spots rather than the parent species' horizontal stripes. It is widely considered a colour morph or selective breed rather than a fully distinct wild species, though it is sometimes listed as a separate taxon.

Like all danios, it is exceptionally hardy, tolerating a wide range of water conditions and temperatures, which makes it one of the easiest schooling fish to keep. It thrives in groups of eight or more, displaying constant active swimming across all levels of the aquarium and engaging in playful chase behaviour.

The Frankei Danio is an excellent choice for community tanks with other peaceful species of similar size, and its energetic schooling makes it a lively focal point in larger nano or standard community aquariums.

Water: Temperature 18–24°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15; tolerant of a wide range of conditions, does best with weekly partial water changes. Tank: Minimum 60 L, well-planted with open swimming space; secure lid essential as danios are strong jumpers. Feeding: Accepts all standard flake, micro-pellet, and frozen foods; small live foods like daphnia and baby brine shrimp enhance colour. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; spawns readily over fine-leaved plants or spawning mops; remove adults after spawning to prevent egg predation. Compatibility: Peaceful with most community fish; avoid housing with slow-finned species as danios may nip; best with similar-sized active schooling fish.