Species profile
Zebra Danio
Danio rerio
Peaceful
Easy care
70 L minimum aquarium
3–5 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Hardy, highly active subtropical danio that benefits from cooler, well-oxygenated water and a long swimming area rather than a warm nano aquarium.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
15–24 °C
pH
6–8
GH
5–19 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
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
0.6
Keep in a lively shoal. Small groups are more likely to harass one another or nip slow long-finned tankmates. A tight cover is essential because danios jump.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
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
3–5.5 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
70 L
Minimum footprint
75 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Danio rerio
Alternative names
Zebrafish, Zebra Fish
Native range
South Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Nepal and adjoining drainages.
Natural habitat
Uses streams, canals, ponds and seasonally connected waters, often in shallow vegetated areas. Good oxygenation and moderate current are beneficial.
Diet & feeding
Feeds readily on quality flake or small pellets supplemented with small frozen/live invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are deeper-bodied and rounder when mature; males are slimmer and often show stronger yellow/gold tones.
Breeding
Prolific egg scatterer with no parental care. Adults may eat eggs; dedicated spawning media or mesh improves survival.