Orange Finned Danio Care Guide - Aquarium Setup, Diet & Breeding

The Orange Finned Danio is a small, lively danio with a streamlined body, warm orange to yellow fins and attractive dark markings along the flanks. Depending on the individual and its mood, the body may show a golden, olive or coppery sheen, while the horizontal patterning gives it a crisp, striking appearance.

This species is constantly active, spending much of its time in the middle and upper levels of the aquarium. It is an energetic shoaling fish that becomes more confident and displays more natural behaviour when kept in a good-sized group. Individuals frequently chase one another harmlessly as they establish a loose social hierarchy.

In the wild, Orange Finned Danios inhabit cool, well-oxygenated running waters with gravel, rounded stones and patches of aquatic or overhanging vegetation. Their body shape and lively swimming style reflect life in current rather than in stagnant pools.

Brachydanio kyathit was formerly widely referred to as Danio kyathit. Although it is sometimes sold under names such as Glowlight Danio or Orange-Finned Danio, it is distinct from the similarly named Glowlight Rasbora. Its appealing colour, small adult size and peaceful nature have made it a popular choice for active community aquariums.

Orange Finned Danios originate in northern Myanmar in Southeast Asia, where they are associated with clear, flowing streams and small tributaries. Their known range includes parts of the Irrawaddy drainage and nearby upland waters.

A group should be kept in an aquarium of at least 60 litres, with a footprint of around 60 cm by 30 cm or larger to provide uninterrupted swimming space. Use a secure cover because these active danios can jump, and provide good circulation and oxygenation without creating an excessively turbulent flow. A fine gravel or sand substrate, smooth stones, driftwood and planted areas along the sides and rear create a natural stream-inspired layout while leaving open water at the front. Floating plants or overhanging vegetation can provide shade without blocking their swimming room.

Up to approximately 4.5 cm (1.8 inches) in total length. Females are usually slightly larger and deeper-bodied than males.

Orange Finned Danios are omnivores and should receive a varied diet of quality small pellets or flakes supplemented with frozen or live foods. Daphnia, baby brine shrimp, mosquito larvae and other appropriately sized foods encourage good condition and natural feeding behaviour. Offer small portions that they can consume quickly, as their small mouths are better suited to frequent modest meals than large pieces of food.

Orange Finned Danios are peaceful community fish and suit other active, similarly sized species that appreciate comparable water conditions. Suitable companions include small rasboras, other danios, white cloud mountain minnows, small barbs, peaceful tetras and corydoras. Avoid pairing them with large predatory fish, boisterous species or slow-moving fish with long, delicate fins, which may be stressed by their constant activity.

Orange Finned Danios are egg-scattering spawners that can breed readily in a separate, mature breeding aquarium. Condition a group with plenty of small live or frozen foods, then place selected adults over a spawning mop or a layer of marbles that protects the eggs from being eaten. Spawning is often triggered by fresh, slightly cooler water in the morning. Remove the adults after spawning, and hatch the eggs in clean, gently aerated water; the fry can be fed infusoria or a liquid fry food before moving on to newly hatched brine shrimp.

Females are generally fuller through the abdomen and may appear slightly larger, particularly when carrying eggs. Males are usually slimmer, more streamlined and often show stronger colour contrast, especially when displaying or spawning.