Rose danio - Danio roseus

Scientific name: Danio roseus

Common name: Rose danio

Family: Cyprinidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 3 - 4 cm (1.18 - 1.57 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.2 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 13°N (71.43 - 232.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 27 °C (71.6 - 80.6°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: Middle levels

Short Description

The Rose Danio (Danio roseus) is a peaceful and active schooling fish native to Southeast Asia. With their shimmering rose and silver hues, they are a delightful addition to community tanks. These fish thrive in groups of six or more, showcasing their playful and social nature. Rose Danios prefer cooler water temperatures within their range and are well-suited for aquarists of all experience levels due to their hardy and adaptable nature.

Origin

Native to Southeast Asia, Rose Danios are found in the clear, fast-flowing rivers and streams of Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. Their natural habitats are characterized by cooler water temperatures, moderate flow, and abundant vegetation.

Tank Requirements

Rose Danios require a tank of at least 40 liters (10 gallons) to accommodate their active swimming behavior. Maintain water temperatures between 22-27°C (71.6-80.6°F), a pH range of 6.2-7, and water hardness of 4-13°N (71.43-232.14 ppm). Provide a mix of open swimming spaces and planted areas using hardy plants like Java fern or Anubias. A sandy or fine gravel substrate works best. Ensure moderate water flow to replicate their natural environment and perform regular water changes to maintain water quality.

Food and Feeding

Rose Danios are omnivorous and accept a variety of foods. Provide high-quality flakes or small pellets as their staple diet. Supplement their diet twice a week with live or frozen treats like brine shrimp, daphnia, and tubifex. Feeding them small portions multiple times a day ensures optimal nutrition and supports their active metabolism.

Compatibility

Rose Danios are peaceful and ideal for community tanks. They coexist well with other small, non-aggressive species such as tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras catfish. Avoid housing them with slow-moving or long-finned species, as their active nature may cause unintentional stress. Keeping them in groups of at least six promotes natural schooling behavior and reduces stress.

Sexing

Females are generally larger and have a stockier body shape compared to males. These differences become more apparent during breeding when females appear fuller due to their eggs.

Breeding

To breed Rose Danios, set up a dedicated breeding tank with a substrate of marbles or add Java moss or spawning mops. These materials protect the eggs by allowing them to settle into crevices or foliage. Danios typically spawn at daybreak, scattering their eggs throughout the tank. After spawning, remove the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs hatch within 24-36 hours, and once the fry are free-swimming, feed them infusoria or finely powdered fry food, gradually transitioning to larger foods as they grow.

Lifespan

With proper care, Rose Danios can live up to 5 years. Maintaining stable water parameters, providing a nutritious diet, and minimizing stress are key to their longevity.