Moustached Danio (Danio dangila) Care Guide
Danio dangila is among the largest Danio species, with long barbels and a reticulated pattern, needing a roomy tank for its active shoals.
Overview
Danio dangila, the moustached danio, is one of the largest members of the genus Danio and is the type species of the revalidated genus. Its common name refers to its exceptionally long barbels. It is an active shoaling fish that requires plenty of swimming room.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Genus: Danio (type species)
- Scientific name: Danio dangila
Habitat
It occurs through the Ganges River basin, with most records from Nepal and from the Brahmaputra drainage in India and Bangladesh; it is also reported from Bhutan tributaries and Myanmar. Habitats range from mountain streams to sluggish, swampy waters with dense marginal vegetation, and the species is adaptable across different altitudes.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L
- Temperature: 18-26 °C (64-79 °F)
- pH: 6.5-7.8
- GH: 5-18 °dGH
- School size: at least 6 individuals (8-10 recommended)
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
A large aquarium with a long footprint and good swimming length suits this active fish; a filter providing several turnovers per hour helps replicate its flowing-water origins. The species reaches a substantial size for a danio.
Diet
In the wild it preys on insects and larvae. In the aquarium it is an unfussy feeder, accepting dried staples supplemented with bloodworm, Daphnia and Artemia.
Compatibility
It is not aggressive but is very active and may disturb slow-moving tankmates, so it suits communities of robust, similarly sized fish. Keep it in groups of at least 8-10; very small fish make poor companions and should be avoided.
Breeding
It is an egg-scatterer with no parental care. Breeding is considered trickier than in other danios, but has been achieved with groups conditioned on live foods.