Bengal Danio 4.5cm

Bengal Danio

The Bengal Danio is an active and eye-catching freshwater fish originating from the rivers and streams of South Asia. Known for its incredibly fast swimming and striking colours, this species brings movement and vibrancy to any aquarium. Bengal Danios are very hardy and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Their social nature and preference for schooling make them best suited to community setups with similarly active tank mates.

The Bengal Danio has a sleek, elongated body that can grow up to 10 cm in length, making it one of the larger species in the Danio family. Its base colour ranges from shimmering silver to pale gold, adorned with bold horizontal blue or purple stripes that extend from head to tail. These markings become more intense under proper lighting, highlighting the fish's natural beauty. Its fins are relatively short and transparent, with subtle yellow or reddish hues on the dorsal and caudal fins. This species is highly energetic and thrives in groups, constantly darting across the upper and middle sections of the tank. Their fast-paced nature makes them excellent tank mates for other active fish, as they rarely show aggression when kept in appropriately sized groups.

Breeding Bengal Danios is relatively straightforward, as they are egg-scattering spawners that do not exhibit parental care. A separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops is recommended, as the adults may consume their eggs. Spawning is triggered by warmer water temperatures of around 26°C, with the female releasing eggs while the male fertilises them. Within 24 to 36 hours, the eggs hatch into tiny fry that become free-swimming a few days later. The fry initially requires microscopic food like infusoria before transitioning to baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes.

Tank Recommendations for your Bengal Danio

Due to their active swimming habits, Bengal Danios require a spacious tank of at least 70 litres, with larger setups being preferable for bigger schools. A long tank layout is ideal, providing ample horizontal swimming space. The tank should include a mix of open swimming areas and planted sections which provide shelter and reduce stress. A moderate to fast water current, mimicking their natural river habitats, helps keep them comfortable and engaged. A secure lid is essential, as their quick movements make them prone to jumping.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Bengal Danios are best kept with other active and similarly sized fish that can keep up with their fast-paced movements. Their social nature makes them ideal candidates for community tanks, provided their tank mates are not easily stressed by constant activity.

Usually Compatible

Larger tetras, barbs, rasboras, and other danios make excellent companions. Peaceful bottom-dwellers like Corydoras catfish also coexist well, as they occupy different sections of the tank. Hardy livebearers such as platies and swordtails are also good choices.

Sometimes Compatible

Dwarf cichlids and small gouramis may work in larger tanks, though their slower swimming style means they should be monitored for stress. larger shrimp species like Australian Amano shrimp can sometimes coexist, but smaller shrimp may be at risk.

Rarely Compatible

Slow-moving or long-finned fish, such as bettas and angelfish, may struggle with the Bengal Danio's high energy levels. Small, delicate species or invertebrates could be mistaken for food or become overwhelmed by the danios' constant movement.

Feeding your Bengal Danio

Bengal Danios are omnivores and require a varied diet to maintain optimal health and coloration. They readily accept high-quality flake or micro pellet foods, but their diet should be supplemented with protein-rich treats like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Normally these fish are super easy to feed and are a blast to watch eating too.