Queen danio - Devario regina

Scientific name: Devario regina

Common name: Queen danio

Family: Cyprinidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 7 - 8 cm (2.76 - 3.15 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: 23 - 26 °C (73.4 - 78.8°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: Middle levels

Origin

The Queen danio originates from South Asia where it can be found in Thailand and Malaysia. It inhabits small flowing streams and rivers with a high oxygen content.

Short description

The Queen danio is one of the larger species of danio with mature specimens reaching a body length size of just over 3 inches but like other danio it is also classed as a very peaceful species. It displays a beautiful colouration when mature with the body displaying a silver background which is broken by barring that runs the length of the body in green and yellow colouration. These fish can be hard to find in aquatic stores but specialised sellers may be able to find these out for you and they make a great addition to larger community aquariums. They are a very active species so may intimidate smaller tank mates without any intent.

Lifespan

If cared for correctly, the average lifespan for the Queen danio is 4-5 years.

General care

The Queen danio is classed as a shoaling species so it is best to keep them in small groups of at least 6 specimens. To give them space it is best to house these fish in at least a 4 foot (120cm) aquarium to give them plenty of swimming space. Sand or gravel can be used for the substrate and it is best to add rocks or wood to provide hiding places. They are a middle layer dweller for most of the time but may drop to the lower level if they require a respite from the rest of the aquarium inhabitants. The temperature range should be set between 23 - 26 °C (73.4 - 78.8°F) and the pH range should be between 6.1 - 7.9 The lighting should be set to a moderate level and aquatic plants can be added but it may be wise to use hardy species such as Anubias. The oxygen levels in the water must be kept high so aim the outlets from the filter towards the surface to increase gaseous exchange.

Regular water changes must be performed of at least 20% weekly.

Feeding

Feeding the Queen danio is a relatively simple matter as they will accept most foods offered. A quality flake food or small pellets can be offered for the staple of diet by treats of live or frozen foods such as blood worms or artemia will provide a balanced diet.

Sexing

Mature females will grow slightly larger than mature males, they will also have a duller colouration and a rounder belly shape.

Breeding

Queen danio are typical egg scatterers and as is the usual case the parent fish will show no parental care for the eggs or the fry. It is best to use a separate breeding tank and fill this with mature tank water. Keep the lighting levels low and you can add some plants if you wish. The parent fish will need conditioning with live or frozen foods for a couple of weeks and then they can be moved into the breeding tank ready for spawning. The females will develop a swollen belly which is a sure sign that they are gravid i.e. carrying eggs, spawning should take place one or two days after they have been isolated into the breeding tank. When the eggs have been deposited it is best to remove the parent fish and a couple of days later the eggs should hatch. The fry will not require feeding until they are free swimming as their yolk sac will be their initial food source.

The first feeds for the fry should consist of newly hatched brine shrimp, powdered fish flake or even a commercial egg layer fry food.