The Habits of Danio Zebra Fish

Zebra danios (Danio rerio) are family Cyprinidae fish that are fixtures in many home aquariums. These tiny tropical fish come from South Asia -- specifically India, Bangaldesh and Nepal -- where they often live in rivers, streams, ponds, paddy fields, ditches and canals. Zebra danios, also called striped danios, tend to be extremely robust creatures.

  1. Eating Habits

    • These darkly striped fish are omnivorous and therefore consume a blend of flesh and plants. They primarily dine on water bugs and zooplankton, but algae, terrestrial bugs, bug larvae and crustaceans also are on their menus. In captivity, zebra danios eagerly accept diverse arrays of food. They readily eat fresh veggies such as lettuce, while also taking in meaty things like tubifex worms, daphnia and brine shrimp.

    Breeding Habits

    • In nature, reproductive activities of zebra danios generally start at the same time as the damp monsoon season, which starts in April and ends in August. However, they occasionally spawn during other times a year, in times of ample sustenance. Male zebra danios attempt to woo females in groups, usually made up of three to seven specimens. They try to do this by both circling and lightly pushing against them. Spawning generally occurs first thing in the morning. Post-spawning, female and male zebra danios introduce 400 to 500 eggs, which usually take just two or three days to hatch. The mothers and fathers do not involve themselves in "child-rearing" in any capacity.

      In captivity, zebra danios can breed at any time of the year, with no regard for the season. In aquarium environments, they are usually eager and productive breeders. However, since the parents frequently dine on their eggs and subsequent young, it's a wise idea to separate them immediately after spawning.

    Overall Behavioral Habits

    • Zebra danios are usually highly energetic and lively creatures, and they require ample swimming room in their living environments. They do well when they reside in units of at least three individuals. In selecting good tank mates, make sure to opt for fish of around the same size, with temperaments that are typically placid.

    Dominance Habits

    • These diurnal freshwater fish are a social group and spend lots of time in big shoals. Social order is an important component to zebra danios. Individuals assert their social positioning by acting fiercely, whether by running after others or biting them. Powerful specimens tend to take up available food supplies.