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Care guide · Freshwater · fish

Gold ring danio

Danio tinwini

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The gold ring danio (Danio tinwini) is a very small shoaling fish from the Mogaung Chaung in northern Myanmar. Dark spots with golden ring-like markings are distinctive, although tiny spotted danios can be confused in the trade. Sources report about 2.2–3 cm standard length. Keep at least eight to ten in a calm, mature aquarium around 45 cm long with soft, stable water. Food particles must fit its tiny mouth. A secure lid is needed because this danio can jump too. After feeding, check that even the smallest fish take in enough food.

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At a glance

Temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH
1–5 °dGH
Aquarium length
At least 45 cm
Minimum aquarium volume
At least 41 L
Adult size
Approximately 2.2–3 cm
Group size
At least 8–10 individuals
Temperament
Peaceful

About this species

Danio tinwini was described by Kullander and Fang in 2009; Brachydanio tinwini is an older combination. FishBase reports 2.2 cm standard length while Seriously Fish lists 30 mm, giving a source range of about 2.2–3 cm. Its pattern features dark spots with golden accents. Confusion with other tiny spotted danios is possible; check multiple features and locality. Females are generally fuller, while males may show stronger colour during display.

Natural habitat

The species is known from the Mogaung Chaung, an Ayeyarwady tributary in Kachin State, northern Myanmar. Detailed field observations are limited. Seriously Fish infers from related danios that it may use calmer marginal sections of oxygenated streams and minor rivers. This is a cautious comparison with the genus, not direct evidence for every habitat used by D. tinwini.

Aquarium and layout

Seriously Fish recommends a minimum base of 45 × 30 cm and about 41 litres for a group. Miniature size does not mean that a tiny, unstable tank is suitable. Use a mature aquarium with soft, stable water, cover along the margins and open swimming space. Secure the lid and filter intakes. Avoid strong currents and boisterous tankmates that intercept food.

Water conditions

The species-specific range is 18–26°C, pH 6.5–7.5 and GH 1–5 dGH. Water should remain soft and stable. Choose conditions within these ranges, taking account of origin and previous water; do not correct them abruptly. Regular water changes and mature filtration help avoid swings. The breeding account describes very soft, slightly acidic to neutral water for spawning, not a reason to alter daily conditions suddenly.

Behaviour and group size

Gold ring danios are peaceful and naturally shoaling. Keep at least eight to ten so the group feels secure. Their very small adult size makes larger fish a risk even when those fish are not overtly aggressive. Seriously Fish lists Danio choprae and D. kyathit as possible regional companions but advises careful research. Watch that D. tinwini is not chased and can reach food. A species-only aquarium is also a sound option.

Feeding

The species is thought to feed mainly on small insects and larvae. Aquarium fish accept varied foods, but particles must suit their tiny mouths. Use a complete fine-particle or crushed dry food as the staple and add small live or frozen prey such as Daphnia or Artemia. Dried Daphnia is suitable only if the fish can actually eat it. Offer small portions and check that every fish feeds.

Breeding

The gold ring danio scatters eggs and provides no parental care. A mature, densely planted aquarium may produce a few fry, but adults eat eggs and larvae. For controlled spawning, Seriously Fish describes a small dimly lit tank with mesh or fine-leaved plants so eggs fall out of reach. Remove the adults after spawning. The tiny larvae need suitably fine first foods, so prepare these in advance.

Sources & review

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

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