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Danio nigrofasciatus, commonly known as the Dwarf Danio or Spotted Danio, is a small, active, and schooling freshwater fish belonging to the family Cyprinidae. It is characterized by its slender body, vibrant coloration, and distinctive dark horizontal stripes or spots, which can vary in intensity and pattern. This species is popular in the aquarium trade due to its peaceful nature, small size, and attractive appearance.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- The body is typically silvery-gold to yellowish-brown, adorned with a series of dark, often iridescent, horizontal stripes or rows of spots. The exact pattern can vary, with some individuals displaying more continuous stripes and others more broken, spot-like markings. Fins are generally translucent, sometimes with a yellowish tint. Males tend to be more intensely colored and slender than females, especially during breeding.
- Scale type
- cycloid
- Mouth position
- superior
- Distinctive features
- Small size, typically reaching 3-4 cm (1.2-1.6 inches), Slender, torpedo-shaped body, Distinctive dark horizontal markings (stripes or spots) along the flanks, Absence of barbels (a key differentiator from some other Danio species)
- Dorsal fin
- Single, short-based dorsal fin located mid-body.
- Tail fin
- Forked caudal fin.
- Pectoral fin
- Paired pectoral fins, relatively small.
- Distinctive fins
- All fins are generally clear or slightly yellowish, lacking prominent coloration or patterns.
Identification Tips
Size
One of the smallest Danio species, rarely exceeding 4 cm (1.6 inches) in total length.
Body Pattern
Look for the characteristic dark horizontal markings, which can be continuous stripes or a series of distinct spots, against a silvery-gold to yellowish body.
Barbels
Absence of barbels is a key feature distinguishing it from many other Danio species, such as the Zebra Danio (Danio rerio) which has two pairs.
Fin Coloration
Fins are typically clear or faintly yellowish, without prominent patterns.
Habitat
- Water type
- freshwater
- Depth
- Shallow waters, typically less than 1 meter.
- Environment
- Found in clear, slow-moving to moderately flowing streams, rivers, and associated floodplains. Prefers areas with dense aquatic vegetation, submerged roots, and leaf litter, which provide cover and foraging opportunities. The substrate is often sandy or silty.
- Geographic range
- Endemic to Myanmar (Burma), specifically found in the Irrawaddy River basin and its tributaries.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: beginner
- Temperament: peaceful
- Diet: omnivore
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
- Temperature: 20-26 °C (68-79 °F)
- pH level: 6.0-7.5
- Hardness: 2-10 dGH
- Compatibility: Excellent community fish, compatible with other small, peaceful species such as other danios, rasboras, tetras, small gouramis, and corydoras. Best kept in groups of 6 or more to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior.
- Special requirements: Requires a well-planted aquarium with open swimming areas. A gentle current is appreciated. Provide fine substrate and some hiding spots among plants or decor. Good filtration is essential, but strong currents should be avoided.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Breeds year-round in suitable conditions, with peak activity often coinciding with the rainy season in its natural habitat.
- Market price: Low
- Commercial importance: medium
- Taste: Not typically consumed due to small size.
- Texture: Not typically consumed due to small size.
- Nutritional value: Not typically consumed due to small size.
Key Facts
Schooling Behaviorbehavior
Dwarf Danios are highly social and thrive in groups, exhibiting fascinating schooling behaviors that are a joy to observe in an aquarium.
Active Swimmersbehavior
Despite their small size, they are very active swimmers, constantly darting around the middle and upper levels of the water column.
Breedingbehavior
They are egg-scatterers and relatively easy to breed in captivity, making them a popular choice for aquarists interested in breeding projects.
Habitat Preferenceinteresting
In the wild, they prefer clear, vegetated waters, indicating a need for good water quality and planted environments in aquariums.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: not recommended
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions are required beyond standard fish care. They are small and delicate, so handle gently if netting is necessary.
Similar Species
Zebra Danio
Danio rerio
Larger size (up to 5 cm), typically has 5-7 distinct, continuous blue-black horizontal stripes, and possesses two pairs of barbels.
Leopard Danio
Danio rerio var. frankei
A spotted variant of the Zebra Danio, but generally larger and with more irregular, leopard-like spots rather than the more linear or broken patterns of D. nigrofasciatus. Also possesses barbels.
Celestial Pearl Danio
Danio margaritatus
Smaller (up to 2.5 cm), has a dark blue body with numerous iridescent pearl-like spots, and red fins with black stripes. Distinctly different pattern and coloration.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Cypriniformes
- Family
- Cyprinidae
- Genus
- Danio
- Species
- Danio nigrofasciatus
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