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Care guide · Freshwater · fish

Glowlight danio

Danio choprae

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The glowlight danio (Danio choprae) is a lively little shoaling fish from northern Myanmar. Orange-red lines between dark body bars create its striking glow. It reaches about 3 cm standard length, yet it is very active and needs a long swimming area and a securely fitted lid. Keep at least eight to ten fish. It is generally peaceful towards other species, although males may spar within the group and subordinate fish can develop damaged fins. Set it up with oxygenated water, rocks or wood and planting along the margins, while leaving the swimming zone open. After introduction, check that less dominant fish can feed and rest. Stability and suitable housing matter more than pursuing one exact water number.

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At a glance

Temperature
16–26 °C
pH
6.0–8.0
GH
1–12 °dGH
Aquarium length
At least 80 cm
Minimum aquarium volume
At least 72 L
Adult size
Up to 3 cm
Group size
At least 8–10 individuals
Temperament
Peaceful

About this species

The accepted name is Danio choprae; choprai is an incorrect later spelling. The species has also been placed in Brachydanio and Celestichthys. It resembles the close relative Danio flagrans, so colour alone cannot confirm the identity of uncertain trade fish. A slender body with alternating dark and orange-red markings is characteristic. Females are usually fuller and less vivid, while males colour up more strongly during courtship.

Natural habitat

The species is known from the Mogaung Chaung system in northern Myanmar, within the Ayeyarwady drainage. Accounts describe clear, oxygenated hill streams with gravel and rocks. A clear pool with a muddy bottom and no aquatic plants has also been recorded, so the microhabitat is not uniform. In an aquarium, oxygenation, stable water, open swimming space and structure along the margins are sensible priorities.

Aquarium and layout

Seriously Fish recommends a minimum base of 80 × 30 cm and about 72 litres. Length and open swimming space matter more than volume alone. Use gravel, rocks, wood and edge planting; Microsorum, Bolbitis and Anubias can be attached to décor. Provide flow and good oxygenation without creating torrent-like conditions. Fit the lid very securely: this danio can jump through surprisingly small gaps.

Water conditions

Published care ranges are 16–26°C, pH 6.0–8.0 and GH 1–12 dGH. These are tolerance limits, not targets to move between. Choose stable conditions that suit the fish’s source and previous water. A mature aquarium, good oxygenation and regular water changes matter more than rapid corrections. Measure changes and make them gradually.

Behaviour and group size

Glowlight danios are active and peaceful in an appropriate community aquarium. Keep at least eight to ten so attention and hierarchy are distributed within the shoal. Males may chase or spar; check subordinate fish for fin damage and ensure they can rest and feed. Choose tankmates by adult size, temperament and swimming zone. Avoid predators and tiny animals that could become prey.

Feeding

The natural diet is thought to consist mainly of insects and larvae. Aquarium fish usually accept a range of foods. A complete dry food can be the staple if flakes or pellets are small enough; crush flakes if needed. Regularly supplement with small portions of live or frozen foods such as Daphnia, Artemia and bloodworm. Offer only what the group eats promptly and make sure every fish gets access.

Breeding

This danio scatters eggs and provides no parental care. A few fry may survive in a mature, densely planted aquarium, but adults eat eggs and larvae. For controlled breeding, condition the adults and move them to a separate dimly lit tank. Use mesh or fine-leaved plants so eggs fall out of reach, then remove the adults after spawning. Raising the fry requires extremely fine first foods.

Sources & review

This care guide draws on several specialist sources and was last checked on .

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