Rose Danio 3cm

Rose Danio

One of the lesser-known gems of the danio family, the Rose Danio is a striking species that brings a soft pink shimmer and vibrant schooling behaviour to freshwater aquariums. Known for their hardiness and speed, Rose Danios are ideal for beginners looking for an active and eye-catching species, or for seasoned aquarists wanting a colourful addition to their planted tanks.

The Rose Danio gets its name from the blush-like pink tones that run along its flanks. This iridescent sheen often shifts between rose gold, violet, and subtle silver, depending on the lighting. They have a sleek, torpedo-shaped body and transparent fins with hints of colour, giving them a light and elegant presence in motion. While not as long-finned as their zebra cousins, the Rose Danio makes up for it with refined beauty and brilliant shimmer, especially when kept in larger schools. When seen swimming together, they look like a flurry of rose petals drifting through the water.

Breeding Rose Danios is relatively straightforward and follows typical danio patterns. A separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or a mesh substrate will help protect the eggs. Females tend to be fuller-bodied when gravid, and males will often chase them during courtship. After scattering eggs, it is important to remove adults promptly to avoid predation. Eggs usually hatch within two days, and the fry become free-swimming shortly after. Feeding infusoria or powdered fry food in the early stages ensures steady growth.

Tank Recommendations for Your Rose Danios

Rose Danios are active, social schooling fish that thrive when kept in groups of at least five, though larger numbers are even better. A minimum tank size of 50 litres is suitable, with plenty of open swimming space and a tight-fitting lid. A well-planted tank with hiding spots such as driftwood and rocks is ideal. They prefer a pH range of 6.5–7.5 and temperatures between 22–26 °C.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Rose Danios are peaceful and fast-moving, making them suitable for a wide variety of community aquariums. They are not aggressive and will not nip at other fish, though their flowing fins may attract the attention of fin-nippers.

Usually Compatible
Tetras, gouramis, corydoras, angelfish, cherry barbs, and common community fish species.

Sometimes Compatible
Dwarf cichlids, such as rams, and large peaceful cichlids, such as Uaru or Severums, may outcompete them for food.

Rarely Compatible
Shrimp and large aggressive species such as African cichlids, oscars, and jaguar cichlids.

Feeding Your Rose Danios

These danios are omnivorous and not picky eaters. They will readily accept high-quality danio fish foods like flakes and micro pellets, and enjoy live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Their energetic nature means they benefit from multiple small meals throughout the day.