The Zebra Danio Danio rerio (previously Brachydanio rerio)
is a lively little schooling fish that only reaches about 2 1/4 inches (6 cm)
in the aquarium. It's easy to recognize with its attractively striped,
black and white "zebra" patterned body. This is one of the first
types of tropical fish to ever be kept in the aquarium, and it is still
enormously popular. This pretty, inexpensive fish is a great choice
for both beginning and advanced aquarists. Other common names it is known
by are Zebrafish, Striped Danio, and Zebra Fish.
Dozens of variations of this Danio are selectively bred
today, with a variety to suit every taste. Some of the best known
include the Longfin Zebra Danio and color morphs like the Golden Zebra Danio, Albino Zebra Danio, Longfin Blue Danio, and Sandy Zebrafish. Other
well known varieties are the Leopard Danio and Longfin Leopard Danio,
both of which have spots instead of stripes. There is also a variety
called the Hybrid Danio, for those who just can’t choose between spots and
stripes, which has a combination with both. A recently introduced variety
is a Zebrafish (Danio rerio) genome known as the “Glo-fish.” This is a
genetically modified little fish available in beautiful fluorescent colors of
bright red, green, orange-yellow, blue, and purple.
Zebra Danio - Quick Aquarium Care
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner
Size of fish - inches: 2.4 inches (5.99
cm)
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gal (38 L)
Temperament: Peaceful
Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy
Temperature: 64.0 to 75.0° F (17.8 to 23.9° C)
Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner
Aquarium Hardiness: Very Hardy
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner