Malabar danio - Devario malabaricus

Scientific name: Devario malabaricus

Common name: Malabar danio

Family: Cyprinidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 12 - 15 cm (4.72 - 5.91 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.2 - 7.8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 24 °C (71.6 - 75.2°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South Asia

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Top levels

Food and Feeding

Malabar Danios are omnivorous and have a varied diet in their natural habitat, consisting of insects and plant matter. In an aquarium, they readily accept quality flake or pellet foods. For optimal health, supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms twice a week. Their energetic swimming habits require a balanced diet to maintain their vibrant colors and activity levels.

Origin

Native to South Asia, Malabar Danios (Devario malabaricus) are found in the rivers and streams of Sri Lanka and the western coasts of India. These regions are characterized by clear, fast-flowing waters with sandy and rocky substrates, often surrounded by lush vegetation. Replicating these conditions in a home aquarium helps these fish thrive.

Sexing

Sexing Malabar Danios becomes apparent as they mature. Females are typically plumper and slightly larger, especially when carrying eggs, while males display a slimmer body and brighter color patterns during courtship.

Breeding

Breeding Malabar Danios is relatively straightforward under the right conditions. Set up a shallow breeding tank with a sandy substrate and plenty of plants or spawning mops for the eggs to adhere to. Females scatter sticky, light-orange eggs across the tank, including on plants and glass. It is crucial to remove the parents after spawning, as they will consume the eggs if given the chance. The eggs hatch within 2-3 days, and the fry can be fed Infusoria or liquid fry food initially, transitioning to newly hatched brine shrimp as they grow.

Lifespan

With proper care and a well-maintained environment, Malabar Danios can live up to 5 years, adding energy and beauty to a community tank throughout their lifespan.

Tank Setup and Behavior

Malabar Danios are active shoaling fish that thrive in groups of at least six individuals. They are peaceful and make excellent additions to community tanks. These fish prefer a spacious aquarium with open swimming areas and a moderate current to mimic their natural habitat. Add a sandy or fine gravel substrate, rocks, and hardy plants such as Java Fern or Anubias to create a balanced environment.

Compatible tankmates include:

Neon Tetras – Gentle companions with complementary water requirements.
Harlequin Rasboras – Peaceful schooling fish that share similar swimming habits.
Ember Tetras – Small, peaceful fish ideal for a harmonious tank.
Otocinclus Catfish – Bottom-dwelling companions that coexist peacefully.
Bolivian Rams – Non-aggressive dwarf cichlids that add variety to the tank.

Avoid housing Malabar Danios with slow-moving or long-finned species, such as bettas or angelfish, as their active swimming may stress these tankmates.

Short Description

Malabar Danios are vibrant and energetic fish that bring life and movement to any aquarium. Their peaceful nature, striking appearance, and shoaling behavior make them a favorite among aquarists. Easy to care for and suitable for community tanks, these danios thrive in well-maintained environments that mimic their natural habitat.