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How to Take Care of Danio Fish

A danio is a small freshwater fish popular with aquarium enthusiasts. There are several species of this fish, belonging to the genus danio. Danios are small and streamlined, usually characterized by horizontal black bars. They are native to freshwater rivers and streams of southeast Asia. In the wild, they eat primarily small insects, crustaceans, worms and plankton. These fish are not aggressive and you can keep them with other nonagressive species. They are hardy as well as inexpensive, requiring basic, minimal care.

Things You'll Need

Narrow glass aquarium, 20 gallons or more
Coarse sand or gravel
Live plants (if desired)
Aquarium dechlorinator
pH testing kit
Aquarium thermometer
Freeze-dried flake fish food
3 or more danios

Instructions

Setting Up a Habitat
- 1
  
  Goldfish in a small aquarium
  
  Obtain a long, narrow glass aquarium, with a capacity of 20 gallons or more. Cover the bottom with a coarse sand or gravel substrate. Decorate sparsely with live plants and glass rocks. Leave open space for swimming, as danios are active, schooling fish.
- 2
  
  Freshwater fish
  
  Fill the tank with tap water. Add the appropriate amount of dechlorinator and let stand for 24 hours. The dechlorinator removes chlorine from the water, which may be toxic to fish. After 24 hours, test the pH of the water with a pH testing kit, making sure the water measures around 7.
- 3
  
  Aquatic plants
  
  Attach a thermometer strip to the outside of the tank. Place the tank in an area where the temperature is moderate, ranging from 71 to 77 F. Add the danios, ideally in a group of at least three, but preferably several more. Feed bloodworms, brine shrimp, or freeze-dried frozen or flake food daily.

Animals & Science