Barred Danio

The barred danio is a species endemic to the Nilwala River basin in southern Sri Lanka. The dark vertical bars lined up along its golden-olive body earned it the English name "barred danio." It grows to about 6 cm. Because its habitat is very small and under threat, it is counted among the critically endangered species in the wild. It is important that fish in the hobby are captive-bred rather than wild-caught; breeding by hobbyists also contributes to the conservation of the species.

• At least 80 liters and 80 cm in length for a school of 6–10.
• 22–25°C, pH 6–7, soft to moderately hard water.
• Gentle to moderate current and high oxygen; gravel substrate, stones and plants along the sides.
• Use a lid since it jumps.

Omnivorous. It accepts flakes and granules; frozen brine shrimp, daphnia and mosquito larvae help maintain color and condition.

Peaceful and active. As a school it swims in the upper and middle layers; males flare their fins at each other and engage in short chases.

Good companions: other danios and rasboras, small barbs, corydoras, kuhli loaches, current-loving loaches.

Avoid: large and predatory species, slow and long-finned fish.