Zebra Danio

Author : Efrain Silva

Appearance

This fish is also called the Zebrafish — and you probably guessed, by now — that it is striped indeed, like a zebra. It is naturally silver - colored, and its stripes are blue, and its lips can be golden or silverish, all in all. There is also an albino version of this fish — how funny and intriguing is that?

Anyways, the Zebra Danio, depending on how fast it moves, can actually look black and white from a distance. See why it’s more like a zebra? Now for its diet (perhaps the most fun part of this whole thing, what you’ve really been wanting to learn more about….)

Diet

The Zebra Danio is omnivorous. It will not pass up a good free offer of mosquito larvae. Neither will it think twice before eating up a worm or a small crustacean. It even likes algae and other plant life, too, when it can find it.

Not only that, but to further add, did you know that certain flake - food algae now exists and can be bought at pet stores (or even local retail places)? Yes, I’m talking about a flake form of algae that’s out there, and guess what? This fish loves it, too!

Origins

The Danio rerio is its origin name, in terms of categorization — scientists thought, apparently, it’d be a good idea to keep this one’s name short and sweet (unlike with many other fishes, which have long technical jargon names). “Danio rerio” cuts right to the point and makes a bold statement about this fish, I think. Now, where did this little guy first swim from, you ask? It’s an

Asian native (southern parts). Subtropical and tropical versions of this fish both exist. Some also prefer to call it by the name of “Zebra Danio”.

Roommate Situation

You want to put it with similar species, and that is boldly understating the fact of the matter : This is so crucial to always keep in mind, so do not fail to do so. Flying Barbs make great tank buddies for it (and they have already agreed to let it room with them, with a special discount of half off the first month’s rent, he heh). You know what other little buddies can work great? Get a few Bengal Turquoise Danios up in there, and you can let the party begin….like - minded fish always get along best.

Other Facts to Note

Keep in mind : This particular breed of fish is often at a risk for contracting some mild - to - severe form of what is known as Mycobacteriosis. Have you heard the term before? Well, this is what it applies to —- it’s basically a zoonotic disease, and guess what else? People can get it, too!

What you want to do is the following : Assess your fish often. Note any ‘health signals’ it may give you. These can include loss of its fins, lethargy, or even ulcerations and skin inflammations, among other symptoms. Be careful.