Species profile
Panther Danio
Danio aesculapii
Peaceful
Moderate care
60 L minimum aquarium
3–4 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Prefers relatively soft water and does not need the uniformly warm temperatures often applied to generic tropical danios.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–27 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
1–8 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 8
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.5
Small active shoaling danio. Keep in a good group with planted margins and open swimming space.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
4–5 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Danio aesculapii
Alternative names
Panther Danio, Leopard Danio of Rakhine, Brachydanio aesculapii
Native range
Rakhine Yoma region, western Myanmar.
Natural habitat
Seasonal small streams over rock/gravel with forest cover; flow can vary strongly between wet and dry seasons.
Diet & feeding
Small insects and zooplankton plus prepared foods; feed varied fine dry, frozen and live foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are fuller-bodied; males are slimmer and usually more strongly patterned/coloured.
Breeding
Egg-scattering cyprinid with no parental care; use mesh/mops or dense plants to protect eggs from adults.