Zebra Danio

Danio rerio is native to the shallow, fast-flowing rivers and rice paddies of northern India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar. It is one of the hardiest of all tropical fish, tolerating a wide range of temperatures and water conditions with ease. Its bold horizontal stripes run from gill plate to tail tip, and its fast, darting schooling behaviour makes it mesmerising in groups. It is also a key organism in biological research and genetics.

Water: 18–26°C, pH 6.5–7.5, wide hardness tolerance (GH 5–20). Tank: 60 L minimum; wide tank preferred over tall to allow full-speed swimming. Feeding: Omnivore; readily accepts flake, micro-pellets, and frozen/live foods. Behaviour: Active, peaceful schooler; keep in groups of 8+; fast swimmers occupying all water levels. Compatibility: Excellent community fish; compatible with virtually all peaceful freshwater species.