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Black Barred Danio - Danio absconditus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Prepare to be captivated by the allure of the Black-barred Danio (Danio absconditus), a species renowned for its peaceful nature, resilience, vigorous activity, and amiable demeanour. Unlike typical schooling fish, Danios display unique behaviour wherein they form tight-knit groups when faced with perceived threats, showcasing their remarkable adaptability. To foster a harmonious social dynamic, it is highly recommended to maintain these remarkable fish in groups of 10 or more individuals. This enables the sub-dominant members of both sexes to find respite from the occasional assertiveness of the alpha fish, ensuring a harmonious coexistence within the aquatic realm.
When it comes to selecting tankmates for the black-barred Danios, consider the company of Cyprinids, Cichlids, larger Tetras, Loaches, and Catfish, as they prove to be excellent companions. However, exercise caution when introducing slow-moving or timid fish into the mix, as the Danios' endless vigour and robust feeding behaviour may cause distress for such tankmates. Vigilance is also necessary for securing the aquarium environment, as members of this genus possess remarkable jumping abilities and can effortlessly navigate through narrow openings. Ensure a snug and secure aquarium cover to prevent any aquatic adventures beyond the confines of their habitat.
Indulge your senses in the captivating aesthetic of the Black-barred Danio. Adorned with a mesmerizing greyish-brown body, these exquisite fish showcase an array of 7 to 11 striking vertical bars on their abdominal region. Adding to their allure, a distinct elongated or round black spot graces the base of their caudal fin, acting as a defining characteristic. Additionally, the subtle yet visually stunning gender differences come to light as females present transparent fins, while males boast vibrant yellowish-orange caudal fins accentuated by a soft black edging on their anal and dorsal fins.
Black Barred Danio Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Black-barred Danios is a straightforward task. Adult males exhibit striking colours and possess a notably slender physique, further accentuated by orange distal edges on their anal and ventral fins. Conversely, females display rounder body contours, particularly when carrying eggs, and exhibit a slightly less vibrant colouration compared to males. An additional characteristic distinguishing the females is the presence of white distal edges on their anal and ventral fins. In situations where multiple males coexist within a group, it is common for one or more individuals to assume an alpha status, resulting in heightened colouration and more pronounced visual displays.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Danio absconditus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 2015 |
| Other Names | None |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Danio |
| Origins | Myanmar |
| Max Size | 8 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 10+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 2 - 15 |
| TDS | 36 - 215 |
| ℉ | 64 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 17- 26 |
Natural habitat
Discover the fascinating origins of the Black-Barred Danios as they trace their roots to the enchanting coastal stream nestled near Gwa in Rakhine State, a picturesque region located in the western reaches of Myanmar within Southeast Asia. This region is immersed in the embrace of a tropical monsoon climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. From May to October, Rakhine experiences a noteworthy rainy season punctuated by abundant rainfall, transforming the landscape. The once tranquil streams, meandering through the terrain, surge with life as their depths swell by a meter or more, flowing with newfound intensity during this period of natural abundance. However, during the dry months, these waterways assume a more subdued character as the rains wane, offering a glimpse into this captivating habitat's dynamic and ever-changing nature.
How to breed the Black Barred Danio
The Black-barred Danio, much like other Danio species, follows an egg-scattering spawning behaviour without exhibiting any form of parental care. In a well-established, densely-planted aquarium with healthy adult fish, spontaneous spawning may occur, resulting in the appearance of a limited number of fry without intervention. However, should you desire to enhance fry production, a slightly more controlled approach is warranted.
To initiate controlled breeding, it is advisable to condition the adult group together while setting up a dedicated breeding tank that is half-filled with water. Dim lighting should be provided within the breeding tank, and the bottom should be covered with a mesh of appropriate grade—wide enough to allow eggs to fall through while preventing adult fish from reaching them. Alternatively, plastic grass matting or an abundance of fine-leaved plants, such as java moss, can yield favourable outcomes. The water parameters in the breeding tank should be relatively soft, slightly acidic to neutral, and maintained at a slightly elevated temperature range. Initially, a small air-powered filter can be added, ensuring the current is directed along the entire tank length or a mature sponge-type filter can be installed.
Once the adult fish are well-conditioned and the females display signs of being full of eggs, one or two pairs can be introduced into the separate breeding tank. Stimulate spawning by feeding the pairs small amounts of live and frozen foods while periodically adding small amounts of cold water to top up the tank gradually. The spawning event typically occurs the following morning. A reliable indicator that the female has spawned is a noticeable slimming of her body. To prevent the adults from consuming the eggs, removing them from the tank after a couple of days is crucial. At this point, replace the power filter with a sponge-type unit to prevent the accidental ingestion of fry.
The incubation period of the eggs is somewhat temperature-dependent, typically taking around 36 hours for hatching to occur. Three to four days later, the fry will become free-swimming. Initially, their diet should consist of Paramecium or a specialized dry food of suitably small grade. As the fry grows, they can be introduced to microworms and baby brine shrimp, which provide the necessary nutrition for their continued development.
By employing these breeding techniques, you can actively participate in the growth and proliferation of the Black-barred Danio, observing the remarkable journey from egg to free-swimming fry as they flourish under your attentive care.
Diet & feeding
To ensure optimal nutrition for Black-barred Danios in the confines of a home aquarium, incorporating a high-quality selection of dried foods, such as flakes and granules, as their dietary staple is recommended. However, to enhance their overall dietary variety and well-being, it is advisable to supplement these dried foods with regular servings of small live, frozen, or freeze-dried fare, such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworm. By offering a well-rounded and balanced diet, your fish will not only maintain their health but also showcase vibrant and captivating colours that are characteristic of their species.
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