Pearl danio - Danio albolineatus

Scientific name: Danio albolineatus

Common name: Pearl danio

Family: Cyprinidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 6 - 7 cm (2.36 - 2.76 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.1 - 7.9

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

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 20 - 25 °C (68 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: East Asia

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Pearl Danio Overview

The Pearl Danio (Danio albolineatus) is a peaceful, hardy species that is well-suited for community tanks. Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of Burma, Sumatra, and Thailand, these fish can grow to a size of 6 to 7 cm (2.36 to 2.76 inches) in captivity. Known for their beautiful pearlescent sheen and active swimming behavior, they are best kept in schools of at least 6 to promote social interaction and reduce stress. Pearl Danios are relatively easy to care for, making them an ideal choice for beginner aquarists.

Tank Requirements

Pearl Danios thrive in a well-planted tank with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 60 liters (15 gallons) is recommended for a small school. These fish prefer water temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F) with a pH range of 6.1 to 7.9 and a water hardness of 4-18°N (71.43 - 321.43 ppm). Maintaining consistent water parameters is crucial for Pearl Danios. Fluctuations in temperature or water chemistry can cause stress, making them more susceptible to disease. Ensure that the tank is well-maintained, with regular water changes (about 20% weekly) to keep the environment clean and stable.

Plants such as Java Moss, Anubias, and Cryptocoryne can provide cover and resting spots for the fish, while floating plants help diffuse light, mimicking their natural habitat. A gentle filter that creates moderate water flow is ideal, as Pearl Danios prefer to swim in currents but not overly turbulent waters. Make sure the tank is covered, as they are known to be excellent jumpers.

Food and Feeding

Pearl Danios are omnivores and will accept a wide variety of foods. A high-quality flake or pellet should serve as the staple diet. To maintain their health and enhance coloration, offer them live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and Tubifex worms as occasional treats. Additionally, plant-based foods like blanched spinach or spirulina flakes can provide essential nutrients. Feeding them 2-3 times a day in small portions will ensure they receive adequate nutrition while keeping the water clean.

Sexing

Sexing Pearl Danios can be somewhat difficult. Males tend to be smaller, slimmer, and more vibrant in coloration, particularly during breeding times. Females are generally rounder and slightly larger, especially when carrying eggs.

Breeding

Pearl Danios are egg scatterers and relatively easy to breed in captivity. To encourage spawning, set up a separate breeding tank with shallow water (about 15 cm or 6 inches deep). Use a substrate of marbles or fine mesh to allow the eggs to fall through, which helps prevent the adults from eating them. Add fine-leaved plants such as Java Fern or spawning mops to provide a spawning site. They often spawn in groups rather than pairs, so adding twice as many males as females can encourage this behavior. Once the eggs are laid, remove the adults as they may consume the eggs. Keep the breeding tank in darkness until the eggs hatch, which usually takes about 2-3 days. Once the fry are free-swimming, feed them newly hatched brine shrimp or specialized fry foods. Ensure the fry are in a separate grow-out tank with gentle filtration and regular water changes to maintain water quality. As they grow, gradually introduce them to finely crushed flake food.

Lifespan

With proper care and stable water conditions, Pearl Danios can live for up to 5 years. Maintaining good water quality and providing a balanced diet will help ensure they reach their full lifespan.

Compatibility and Tank Mates

Pearl Danios are peaceful and make excellent tank mates for a variety of species. They can be kept with other peaceful fish such as Harlequin Rasboras, Neon Tetras, Zebra Danios, and Corydoras Catfish. Avoid housing them with large or aggressive species that may see them as food. They are schooling fish, so keeping them in groups of at least 6 is recommended to promote social behavior and reduce stress. When kept in smaller groups, they may become shy and less active. A well-planted tank with both open swimming areas and hiding places will help reduce any potential stress and create a more natural environment for them.

Short Description

The Pearl Danio (Danio albolineatus) is a peaceful, active fish from Southeast Asia, ideal for community tanks. Reaching sizes of 6 to 7 cm, they thrive in groups of 6 or more and are easy to care for. Pearl Danios prefer well-planted tanks with moderate water flow and a varied diet of flake, live, and frozen foods. With proper care, they can live for up to 5 years, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists.