Celestial Pearl Danio – A Sparkling Gem for Your Aquarium
The Celestial Pearl Danio (Danio margaritatus), often referred to as the "Galaxy Rasbora" due to its mesmerizing, starry appearance, is a small but stunning freshwater fish that adds a brilliant touch to any aquarium. Native to Myanmar, these little gems are known for their vibrant blue bodies speckled with white spots that give them a starry, glittering effect, especially under good lighting.
Despite their small size, these peaceful fish pack a lot of beauty and personality. Celestial Pearl Danios are active swimmers and enjoy schools of 6 or more, where their natural colors really shine. Their peaceful nature makes them perfect for community tanks, and they’re great for aquarists of all experience levels. Easy to care for and hardy, the Celestial Pearl Danio is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add a bit of sparkle to their tank.
Care Requirements:
Tank Size: Minimum of 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group. Larger tanks are ideal to create a natural environment with plenty of space.
Water Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C), with a stable temperature.
Water pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.5 - 7.5).
Water Hardness: Soft to medium (4-12 dGH).
Filtration: Moderate filtration is recommended to maintain clean water. A gentle current is preferred as these fish are not strong swimmers.
Diet: Omnivorous. Feed a balanced diet of high-quality flake food, micro-pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphnia. They also enjoy plant matter such as finely chopped spinach or lettuce.
Tankmates: Very peaceful and can be kept with other small, non-aggressive species such as tetras, shrimp, and other danios. Avoid larger or aggressive fish that may intimidate or outcompete them.
Lighting: Moderate lighting to highlight their shimmering appearance. They’ll look their best under soft, indirect lighting.
Schooling: Best kept in schools of 6 or more to help reduce stress and allow them to exhibit natural behavior. A school will also enhance the visual impact of their sparkling appearance.
Decor: Provide plenty of plants, rocks, and hiding spots to create a natural environment. A planted tank with open swimming areas works best.
Water Quality: Regular water changes and proper filtration are essential for these fish to thrive. They’re sensitive to poor water conditions, so maintaining water quality is a must.