Rose Danio - Danio roseus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Rose Danios (Danio roseus) are a captivating species that bring a touch of elegance to any aquarium setting. With their stunning appearance and peaceful nature, they make a perfect addition to both nano aquariums and well-planted community setups featuring temperate species. In addition, these Danios boast remarkable hardiness and adaptability, allowing them to thrive in various water conditions and coexist harmoniously with a wide range of popular fish in the hobby.
When selecting tankmates for Rose Danios, careful consideration should be given to ensure compatibility. Other Danios, Barbs, Tetras, Livebearers, Rainbowfish, Gouramis, as well as Loaches and Catfish, can make excellent companions for these graceful swimmers. However, it is wise to avoid housing them with much larger or more boisterous species, as it may induce stress or create a predation risk.
Rose Danios are known to form shoals in their natural habitat, and replicating this social structure in the aquarium is beneficial. Keeping a group of at least eight individuals, or preferably more, will not only enhance the visual appeal of your setup but also allow the males to showcase their vibrant colours as they vie for the attention of females. Creating a well-planted aquarium with a darker substrate or simulating the ambience of a flowing stream or river will provide an ideal environment for these exquisite fish. Gravel, different-sized pebbles, or carefully positioned smooth rocks can be used as substrate elements. To further enhance the habitat, the addition of driftwood roots, branches, and resilient aquatic plants such as Anubias, Microsorum, or Bolbitis will create a captivating and natural aesthetic.
Maintaining pristine water quality is essential for the health and vitality of Rose Danios. These fish originate from pristine habitats, making them sensitive to the accumulation of organic waste. Therefore, regular weekly water changes and appropriate filtration will ensure their well-being. Additionally, a secure and tight-fitting lid is necessary, as Rose Danios possess remarkable jumping abilities and can swiftly navigate through small openings.
Rose Danios exhibit a mesmerizing combination of colours. Their bodies display a delightful peachy-rose hue along the lower part, extending to their anal and pelvic fins. Along the flanks, iridescent shades of blueish-purple shimmer, captivating the eyes of any observer. Depending on the lighting conditions, these enchanting fish may also exhibit flashes of red or silver, adding an element of intrigue to their already striking appearance.
Rose Danio Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Rose Danios is a relatively straightforward task. However, females exhibit certain characteristics that set them apart from males. Generally, females tend to have a larger size compared to males, and their bodies appear wider, particularly when they are carrying eggs. Regarding colouration, females are generally more subdued and exhibit a duller appearance.
On the other hand, males possess distinct physical traits that differentiate them from females. They are typically smaller and slimmer in size. One of the notable distinctions is their vibrant colouration, which is significantly more pronounced compared to females. The males showcase a vivid and eye-catching display of colours, enhancing their overall visual appeal.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Danio roseus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 2000 |
| Other Names | Purple Passion Danio, Rosy Danio |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Danio |
| Origins | Myanmar , Laos , China , Thailand |
| Max Size | 4 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 8+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 2 - 15 |
| TDS | 36 - 268 |
| ℉ | 68 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
Nestled within the enchanting landscapes of South Asia, Rose Danios, known for their captivating beauty, grace the waters of the Mekong River drainage. Stretching across Laos, China, Thailand, and Myanmar, these endemic Danios thrive in a mesmerizing aquatic realm. Their habitat is characterized by well-oxygenated, moderately fast-flowing waters that meander through lush forest canopies, glistening springs, and cascading waterfalls. While these vibrant creatures often call the small creeks their home, they can also be found gracefully navigating the serene backwaters of the majestic Mekong River. In this captivating environment, the substrate is adorned with an array of rocks, providing a natural haven for these magnificent beings. Within these pristine habitats, verdant vegetation takes a backseat, allowing the true splendour of the Rose Danios to shine forth.
Breeding
Rose Danios being a resilient and adaptable species, often engage in spawning activities under favourable conditions. In a well-established and heavily-planted aquarium, you may notice the emergence of a small number of fry without any direct intervention. However, if you desire to enhance the yield of offspring, a more controlled approach is recommended.
To initiate successful breeding, it is advisable to condition the adult group together and establish a separate breeding tank. This specialized tank should be filled halfway with mature water. Creating suitable spawning mediums, such as spawning mops or providing the presence of java moss, can encourage egg deposition. Alternatively, placing a mesh or marbles at the tank's bottom will create a hiding place for the eggs to fall through. Maintaining a slightly acidic to neutral water condition is essential, with the temperature set towards the higher end of the range.
Introducing one or two pairs of well-conditioned adult fish into the breeding tank will stimulate the spawning process. Gradually adding cooler water at regular intervals or a substantial evening water change can be employed to encourage this activity further. Supplementing the diet of the Danios with small quantities of live and frozen food can also trigger spawning behaviour. As a result, multiple spawning events are likely to occur before the female depletes her supply of eggs.
To prevent predation, it is crucial to remove the adult fish from the breeding tank once the presence of eggs is confirmed. In addition, replacing the power filter with a mature sponge filter is recommended to prevent the fry from being drawn into the filtration system. The incubation period of the eggs is generally influenced by temperature and typically lasts between 24 to 36 hours. Following hatching, the fry will become free-swimming within a few days. Initially, it is advisable to nourish the fry with freshly hatched brine shrimp or microworms to ensure their proper development and growth.
Diet & Feeding
Rose Danios demonstrate a versatile feeding behaviour within the aquarium environment. While they are not particularly selective eaters, providing them with a high-quality dried product as their primary diet is recommended. This will serve as a reliable staple food source. However, to further enhance their overall health and showcase their vibrant colours, it is beneficial to supplement their diet with regular offerings of frozen, live, and freeze-dried foods. Varieties such as bloodworms, mosquito larvae, brine shrimp, cyclops, and daphnia are highly suitable options. Including these nutritious food items will contribute to the optimal condition and beautiful colouration of your Rose Danios.
