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Care guide · Freshwater · fish

Orange-finned danio

Danio kyathit

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The orange-finned danio (Danio kyathit) is an active shoaling fish from northern Myanmar, marked by dark body stripes and orange-red fins. Its stripes vary: they may be continuous, wavy or broken into spots. Sources report about 3.5–4.5 cm standard length. Keep at least eight to ten in a long aquarium around 90 cm with a very secure lid. It is peaceful and suits carefully selected tankmates; a specialist profile specifically lists Danio choprae as a possible companion. Use a secure lid and check the shoal for fin damage or fish that cannot reach the food.

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At a glance

Temperature
16–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH
1–5 °dGH
Aquarium length
At least 90 cm
Minimum aquarium volume
At least 81 L
Adult size
Approximately 3.5–4.5 cm
Group size
At least 8–10 individuals
Temperament
Peaceful

About this species

The accepted name is Danio kyathit (Fang, 1998). Pattern varies among populations, so spotting does not automatically indicate another species. FishBase reports 3.5 cm standard length, while Seriously Fish gives 45 mm; approximately 3.5–4.5 cm is therefore a transparent range. Look for long barbels, an incomplete lateral line and orange-red fins. Lookalike trade danios of uncertain identity exist, so do not rely on a shop label alone.

Natural habitat

The species is known from upper tributaries of the Ayeyarwady near Myitkyina in northern Myanmar, including Hpa-Lap Chaung, Mogaung and Chindwin. The type locality was a heavily shaded stream beneath bamboo, with clear but slightly brown flowing water over mud and stones. Local patterns vary. These observations support oxygenation and some flow, but not a uniform fast current throughout every aquarium zone.

Aquarium and layout

Use a minimum base of 90 × 30 cm and about 81 litres as given by Seriously Fish. This is an active shoaling fish, so open length matters. Gravel, rocks and wood with edge planting provide structure; Microsorum, Bolbitis and Anubias can be attached to décor. Provide flow and oxygen without making every area turbulent. A tightly fitting lid is essential because danios can jump through small gaps.

Water conditions

Seriously Fish lists 16–26°C, pH 6.5–7.5 and GH 1–5 dGH. Northern Myanmar waters are typically soft. Keep conditions stable and, where possible, match the fish’s origin and previous aquarium water. These are not values to move rapidly between. Regular water changes, mature filtration and good oxygenation help maintain a healthy environment.

Behaviour and group size

Orange-finned danios are peaceful and active shoalers. Keep at least eight to ten; males display more readily in a decent group and the shoal is less nervous. Seriously Fish lists glowlight danio as a possible species from the same Kachin region. Even in this pairing, maintain complete groups in at least 90 cm of tank length and provide enough feeding access. Watch that all fish feed and rest normally.

Feeding

The natural diet is thought to consist mainly of insects and larvae. Aquarium fish accept a variety of foods. Use a complete dry food as the staple and make flakes or pellets small enough. Regularly offer small portions of frozen or live foods such as Daphnia, Artemia and bloodworm. Variety supports condition and colour. Feed modestly and check that subordinate fish also reach the food.

Breeding

Danio kyathit scatters eggs and provides no parental care. Occasional fry may survive in a mature, densely planted aquarium, but adults eat eggs. For deliberate breeding, Seriously Fish recommends a separate tank of about 30–40 litres with Java moss, spawning mops or a grid so eggs fall out of reach. Remove the adults after spawning and use mature sponge filtration. The fry need suitably small first foods, so plan their care in advance.

Sources & review

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

View the sources