Dwarf Spotted Danio (Danio nigrofasciatus) Care Guide
A small, hardy danio from Myanmar with rows of dark spots along its flanks that merge into stripes near the tail.
Overview
Danio nigrofasciatus is a species in the family Cyprinidae. A small, hardy danio from Myanmar with rows of dark spots along its flanks that merge into stripes near the tail. Less common than the Zebra Danio but equally easy to keep, it is an active swimmer that adds movement to the upper levels of community tanks. Tolerates a wide range of water parameters and is excellent for beginners.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Genus: Danio
- Scientific name: Danio nigrofasciatus
- Other names: Spotted Danio, Danio nigrofasciatus, Brown Danio
- Origin: Southeast Asia
Habitat
Native to Myanmar and adjacent parts of Southeast Asia. Inhabits clear, slow-flowing streams and still waters with vegetation. A small shoaling danio marked with rows of dark spots rather than the stripes of its close relative the zebra danio.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L
- Temperature: 18-26 °C
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Adult size: 3-4 cm
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Recommended group size: ≥ 6
- Difficulty: beginner
Diet
Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: peaceful
- Swimming level: top
- Compatible tank mates: Zebra Danio, Corydoras, Tetras, Rasboras, Cherry Shrimp
- Avoid with: Slow-moving long-finned fish, Large predatory fish
Breeding
- Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
- Breeding difficulty: beginner