Keeping Celestial Pearl Danios (Danio margaritatus)

Keeping Celestial Pearl Danios (Danio margaritatus)

Keeping Celestial Pearl Danios (Danio margaritatus)

Celestial Pearl Danios (Danio margaritatus), also known as Galaxy Rasboras or Miniature Trout, are stunning and peaceful freshwater fish that are popular among hobbyists for their vibrant colors and active demeanor. Here's a comprehensive care guide to ensure they thrive in your aquarium and outdoor tub setups, with a nod to KJE's offerings:

  1. Tank Setup:
  • Tank Size: Provide a minimum tank size of 10 gallons for a small school of Celestial Pearl Danios. However, larger tanks (20 gallons or more) are preferable, especially if you plan to keep other tank mates.
  • Filtration: Install a good quality filtration system to maintain water quality. These fish prefer well-oxygenated water with a gentle flow.
  • Substrate: Use fine gravel or sand substrate, as they like to sift through it.
  • Plants and Decor: Provide plenty of live plants like Java Moss, Java Fern, and floating plants to mimic their natural habitat. Additionally, include hiding spots and driftwood for them to explore.
  1. Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: Maintain a stable water temperature between 64°F to 78°F (18°C to 26°C). While they prefer temperatures between 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C), they can tolerate lower temperatures.
  • pH Level: Keep the pH level slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 6.5 to 7.5.
  • Hardness: Aim for moderate water hardness, around 5 to 15 dGH.
  1. Tank Mates:
  • Celestial Pearl Danios are peaceful and should be kept with other non-aggressive fish species. Good tank mates include small tetras, rasboras, dwarf corydoras, and peaceful shrimp.
  • Avoid housing them with larger or aggressive fish that may intimidate or outcompete them for food.
  1. Feeding:
  • Celestial Pearl Danios thrive on a diverse diet to support their health and vibrant colors. KJE offers a selection of nutritious foods tailored for these fish, such as Dr. Bassleer Foods (Medium Size, 0.5mm) in varieties like Chlorella and Acai, along with Dr. Bassleer Baby/Nano Foods for subadults. Additionally, quality flakes like Northfin Community and Kelp Flakes are excellent options to supplement their diet.
  • Offer a balanced mix of these foods to ensure your Celestial Pearl Danios receive all the necessary nutrients for optimal health and coloration. Remember to feed them small amounts multiple times a day, only providing what they can consume within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.
  1. Behavior and Compatibility:
  • Celestial Pearl Danios are active swimmers that appreciate open areas to swim freely.
  • They are schooling fish, so it's best to keep them in groups of at least six individuals to prevent stress and encourage natural behavior.
  1. Maintenance:
  • Perform regular water changes (10-20% weekly) to maintain optimal water quality and prevent the buildup of toxins.
  • Vacuum the substrate during water changes to remove debris and uneaten food.
  1. Health Considerations:
  • Monitor your fish for signs of illness such as loss of appetite, abnormal swimming behavior, or discoloration.
  • Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank to prevent the spread of diseases.
  1. Breeding:
  • Celestial Pearl Danios are relatively easy to breed in a well-planted tank.
  • Provide ample hiding places for the fry to seek refuge from adult fish.
  • The parents may eat their own eggs or fry, so consider removing them to a separate tank once spawning is observed.
  1. Outdoor Tub Setup:
  • If you live in a region with mild climates, consider setting up an outdoor tub during spring and summer for your Celestial Pearl Danios. Ensure the tub is well-shaded to prevent overheating and adequately filtered to maintain water quality.
  • Outdoor tubs provide a more natural environment for these fish, allowing them to exhibit natural behaviors and potentially even breed in a more spacious setting.
  • When transferring fish between indoor and outdoor environments, acclimate them slowly to prevent stress and shock from sudden temperature or environmental changes.

KJE also stocks healthy, locally bred Celestial Pearl Danios, ( https://kjeaquatics.com/products/celestial-pearl-danios ) ensuring you have access to robust and acclimatized fish for your aquarium. By following these care guidelines, you can create a thriving environment for your Celestial Pearl Danios and enjoy their beauty and activity for years to come!

 

Foods mentioned above can be found here : 


Questions or comments can be directed to our email kjeaquatics@gmail.com or you can message us on our Facebook page at facebook.com/kjeaquatics 

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