Danio

Danio fish belong to the genus of the same name of the Karpov family, there are several dozen species, many of which have successfully taken root in aquariums. It is worth noting that these fish are popular not only in the aquarium trade, but also as laboratory animals. For example, it is Danio in 1990-x years, a fluorescent gene was implanted and the first batch of luminous fish was obtained as a result.

There is a certain confusion with the classification and scientific names that is found throughout the literature and on many Internet resources. At the beginning 19-th century naturalist Francis Hamilton (Francis Hamilton) collected the first samples of these fish in reservoirs Southeast Asia and assigned them to the genus Danio (Danio). A century later, as more and more new species were discovered, in 1916 biologists divided the genus into two large groups: the already familiar Danio, where all large species were assigned, and Brachydanio, which differ in smaller sizes. In 1991, another recombination of the genus occurred. All large species that previously belonged to Danio (Danio) were reclassified as Devario (Devario), and the former name began to be used as a synonym for small fish Brachydanio (Brachydanio).

Description

Outwardly, all types of Danio have a similar body shape and differ only in size, color and pattern. In addition, many decorative forms have been bred. These are not only the glowing fish mentioned above, but also albino and hybrid varieties. A characteristic feature is the presence of small antennae at the base of the mouth. Sexual dimorphism is weakly expressed, it is problematic even for an experienced aquarist to distinguish a male from a female.

Behavior

They belong to peaceful flocking species. Solitary content negatively affects the fish and can even lead to their death. Very active, most of the time they are in constant motion. They often jump, so in the absence of a lid they can easily jump out of the aquarium. Compatible with many other non-aggressive species of comparable size. It is worth avoiding the introduction of territorial and predatory fish, as well as those who are prone to biting off fins, for example, Barbs.

Features of the content

Many generations of Danios have been living and breeding in the artificial environment of aquariums for decades. During this time, they have successfully adapted to a different habitat than the one in which their wild relatives live. They are considered one of the easiest fish to keep. They prefer warm, soft, slightly acidic water. The design should provide free spaces for swimming. These are perhaps the only points to which attention should be paid. They accept most popular foods and can adapt to a diet consisting entirely of dry foods (flakes, pellets).

• How to distinguish a female from a male Danio
• Breeding and reproduction of Danio fish
• How to care for Danio caviar and fry