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Blood Tailed Danio - Devario annandalei : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Blood Tailed Danios are a vibrant and friendly fish that brings a lively energy to any peaceful community aquarium, particularly if it already houses larger species. However, be prepared to accommodate their majestic presence, for these Danios stand among the largest of their kind, requiring a spacious aquarium that generously offers ample room for their graceful swimming. But fear not, as these resilient beings gracefully adapt to various temperature and water parameter conditions, making them an ideal choice for both beginner aquarists and seasoned enthusiasts, as long as their aquatic abode meets their size requirements.
In their natural habitat, Blood Tailed Danios revel in the camaraderie of their shoaling nature. To truly appreciate their social dynamics, it is recommended to maintain them in groups of six or more individuals, allowing their collective presence to emanate harmony. Selecting suitable tankmates for these remarkable creatures involves careful consideration of medium to large-sized Danios, Barbs, and Rasboras, as well as peaceable Cichlids, Catfish, and Loaches. It is advised to exercise caution with smaller species, as the spirited nature of the Blood Tailed Danios might ignite their predatory instincts, while slow-moving companions may find themselves overwhelmed by their lively disposition.
Creating an environment that mirrors their natural habitat is key to their well-being. Oxygenation and a moderate flow rate form the foundation of their aquatic realm, enabling them to relish the invigorating challenge of swimming against the current. Introducing a powerhead or an internal filter provides the ideal support for their energetic nature. Furthermore, it is vital to prioritize water quality, as these magnificent creatures hail from pristine habitats and are intolerant of excessive organic waste accumulation. Hence, only present them with a biologically mature aquarium, ensuring optimal water conditions for their thriving existence.
Bearing witness to their enchanting beauty, the Blood Tailed Danios captivate our gaze. With a metallic silvery-blue body adorned with resplendent yellowish-orange lines and dots, their iridescent elegance starts at the gills and seamlessly flows through to the base of their caudal fin. A striking display awaits as blood-red and light blue hues intermingle between the caudal fin rays, creating a mesmerizing symphony of colours. Remaining true to their nature, all other fins remain transparent, allowing their radiant beauty to take centre stage.
Intriguing and glorious, the Blood Tailed Danios beckon us to join them in their aquatic realm. Let us embrace the responsibility of providing them with an environment that mirrors their natural wonders, and in return, they will grace us with their remarkable presence and captivating allure.
Blood Tailed Danio Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Differentiating between male and female Blood Tailed Danios can be a challenging task. Females of this species generally exhibit larger body sizes, a more rounded abdominal region, and less vibrant colouration compared to males. Conversely, males are characterized by their slimmer physique and more pronounced, vivid colouration.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Devario annandalei |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1908 |
| Other Names | None |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Devario |
| Origins | China Thailand |
| Max Size | 10 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| KH | 4 - 8 |
| ℉ | 71 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 21 - 26 |
Natural habitat
Blood Tailed Danios, native to the Chao Phraya, Salween, and Mekong River Basins in Southeast Asia, possess a captivating natural habitat. These Danios thrive in the dynamic waters that traverse rugged mountain canyons, as well as the lush tropical and subtropical floodplain rivers and wetlands embraced by verdant forests. Their resilience and adaptability to such diverse aquatic environments make them an intriguing species to observe and care for in the aquarium setting.
How to breed the Blood Tailed Danio
Regrettably, detailed information regarding the breeding of Blood Tailed Danios is scarce or non-existent. However, it is reasonable to expect that their breeding behaviour would align closely with other members of the Devario species. Therefore, to facilitate the breeding process, it is recommended to condition your adult group together, followed by the setup of a separate breeding tank filled halfway with mature water.
Creating a suitable spawning environment within the breeding tank is crucial. Consider allocating a significant portion of the tank's space to appropriate spawning mediums such as java moss or spawning mops. Alternatively, the use of mesh, pebbles, or marbles on the tank's base can serve as a means for the eggs to fall through and find concealment. Maintaining a water pH level ranging from somewhat acidic to neutral, along with a slightly elevated temperature, will promote favourable breeding conditions. Introducing an air stone or an air-powered sponge filter will ensure proper water movement and oxygenation within the breeding tank.
Once the adult fish have been conditioned and the females exhibit signs of being laden with eggs, it is advisable to introduce one or two pairs into the breeding tank. Stimulating spawning can be achieved by providing the Danios with small quantities of live and frozen food. Multiple spawning events may occur before a female exhausts her supply of eggs. Typically, spawning occurs within a 24-hour timeframe, with the female appearing noticeably slimmer once all her eggs have been laid. Following a period of 48 hours, removing the adult fish from the breeding tank is crucial to prevent them from consuming the eggs.
The incubation period of the eggs may vary depending on temperature conditions, typically spanning between 24 and 36 hours. Subsequently, the fry will transition into the free-swimming stage within a few days. Initially, nourishing the fry with liquid fry food, Paramecium, or powdered food is recommended. As the fry grows, transitioning to newly hatched brine shrimp and microworms, typically around a week later, will provide them with suitable sustenance as they reach the appropriate size to accept these foods.
While specific breeding techniques for Blood Tailed Danios may remain elusive, adhering to these guidelines based on related Devario species can serve as a foundation for successful breeding. Patience and attentive care are key as you navigate the intricacies of nurturing these fascinating creatures throughout their breeding journey.
Diet & feeding
Blood Tailed Danios exhibit a versatile appetite within the aquarium. While they are not particularly selective eaters, providing them with high-quality dried food as their primary diet is recommended. In addition, supplementing their meals with regular servings of frozen, live, and freeze-dried foods such as cyclops, mosquito larvae, brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworm will contribute to maintaining their vibrant colours and overall well-being. Offering a diverse diet ensures that your Danios receive the necessary nutrition for optimal health.
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