Red Finned Danio - Danio kyathit : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Red Finned Danio (Danio kyathit) is an alluring and placid species, representing a valuable addition to a thoughtfully populated community tank. Its inherent adaptability facilitates harmonious cohabitation with a wide spectrum of popular aquatic companions, rendering it a commendable choice for aquarists of diverse preferences.
Exhibiting schooling tendencies, these danios flourish optimally in clusters comprised of 8 to 10 individuals. Maintaining a substantial number of these specimens not only elicits a more organic aesthetic within the tank but also prompts males to display their most resplendent colourations as they vie for the attention of females.
Crafting an environment that caters to the exacting requirements of this species necessitates the provision of cool and unpolluted water, characterised by judiciously regulated salinity and mineral content, thereby faithfully mirroring the native habitats of these fish. The pivotal maintenance of a neutral pH level within the tank's water column is of paramount importance.
To ensure the perpetuation of water quality, the adoption of robust filtration systems, such as canister filters or power filters, is strongly advocated, as they effectively curtail the presence of excessive contaminants. The installation of luminous LED lighting, calibrated to a moderately elevated intensity, emerges as prudent counsel.
Elevating the tank's environment entails incorporating a diverse array of aquatic flora, coupled with introducing buoyant vegetation such as water lettuce or frogbit. These elements fulfil a dual role: providing sustenance for the fish while also conferring a verdant canopy-like shelter. This botanical enrichment caters to dietary preferences and engenders pivotal concealment alcoves when necessary.
Further heightening the refuge provision, introducing rock formations into the aquarium is judiciously recommended. It is pivotal to employ a securely fitted lid for the aquarium, as the Red Finned Danio is known for its adept jumping skills and propensity to navigate through even narrow crevices.
Distinguished by its torpedo-shaped argent frame adorned with modestly sized dark markings scattered across its body, the Red Finned Danio's captivating visage is punctuated by its reddish-hued fins.
Red Finned Danio Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Discerning the gender of Red Finned Danios is a relatively straightforward undertaking. Female specimens are characterised by comparatively larger and more rounded abdominal contours, as well as deeper body profiles, setting them apart from their male counterparts. This distinction is further highlighted by the diminished presence of red pigment in their fins.
Conversely, males present a more slender physique, distinguished by their diminutive size, and boast a more pronounced scarlet hue in their fins, contributing to an overall chromatic opulence that exceeds that of the females. These divergences become particularly conspicuous during the spawning phase, a period in which the fish are in their prime reproductive state.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Danio kyathit |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Ocelot Danio |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Danio |
| Origins | Myanmar |
| Max Size | 5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 8+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 1 - 18 |
| TDS | 18 - 90 |
| ℉ | 60 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 15 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
Originating from the idyllic watercourses of northern Myanmar situated in Southeast Asia, the Red Finned Danio stands as a remarkable and unparalleled species. Endowed with distinctiveness, this fish inhabits exclusively the upper reaches of the Irrawaddy River, as well as the Hpa-Lap Chaung, Mogaung, and Chindwin Rivers.
These aquatic landscapes symbolise their swiftly coursing currents, infused with tannins that bestow a characteristic hue while maintaining a crystalline clarity. Such conditions provide an optimal haven for the flourishing of this species.
Within its native environment, the Red Finned Danio takes residence within modest brooks and waterways characterised by verdant fringes and burgeoning bamboo thickets, effectively endowing them with abundant shading. The substratum underfoot combines mud and stones, culminating in an intricate mosaic that fosters a multifaceted and dynamic ecological niche.
Breeding
A more methodical approach is advised when striving to amplify the yield of Red Finned Danio fry. To commence, the adult cohort should be primed within a well-furnished and mature aquarium environment. However, to augment fry production, implementing a distinct breeding tank is recommended, which should be filled to half-capacity with water.
Maximising the available space within this breeding setting involves strategically placing spawning substrates, such as wool mops, java moss, or a specialised spawning mesh. The water parameters in the breeding tank ought to lean toward slight acidity or neutrality, accompanied by a temperature set towards the upper limit of the suitable range. Introducing an internal power filter can contribute to a directed water flow spanning the entirety of the tank's length.
Subsequent to the successful conditioning of adult fish and the conspicuous readiness of female specimens bearing mature eggs, the prudent course of action involves introducing one or two pairs into the designated breeding tank. Gradual infusions of cooler water at regular intervals serve to stimulate the commencement of the spawning process. Augmenting this with measured quantities of live and frozen sustenance can also act as a trigger.
It is prudent to anticipate the occurrence of multiple spawning events before a female's egg reservoir is depleted. Considering the propensity of adult fish to consume any available eggs, the prompt removal of the adults upon spawning's culmination is essential. At this juncture, transitioning the power filter to a mature sponge-type apparatus is recommended, effectively thwarting the potential entrapment of the fry.
The subsequent incubation period spans a duration of 24 to 36 hours and is contingent upon temperature conditions. In due course, the fry will gain mobility and transition to free-swimming status. Commencing their nourishment regimen, initiating feeding with options such as baby brine shrimp or microworms is advisable.
Diet & Feeding
Within an aquarium setting, Red Finned Danios exhibit a notably undemanding dietary disposition, readily consuming a diverse array of sustenance. While premium-grade dried alimentary offerings can effectively constitute their principal nourishment, it is advised to enhance their dietary intake through the inclusion of petite live and frozen delicacies, encompassing Daphnia, bloodworms, and Artemia.
This supplementary regimen not only augments their vivid pigmentation but also fosters an optimal state of physical well-being. By adopting this comprehensive nutritional strategy, the vitality and vibrancy of your aquatic companions can be effectively maintained.
