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Fireline Danio - Devario sondhii : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Fireline Danio (Devario sondhii) is a relatively new addition to the aquarium hobby, having only been introduced in 2007. These delightful fish are peaceful, hardy, and active, making them an excellent choice for beginner aquarists looking to add some lively and colourful fish to their community aquarium. Fireline Danios are natural shoaling species, so it's best to keep them in groups of six or more individuals for the most natural and enjoyable display.
When it comes to tankmates, Fireline Danios get along well with other small Cyprinids, Danios, livebearers, Rasboras, Tetras, bottom-dwellers such as Loaches and Catfish, Gobies, and Dwarf shrimp. They can also coexist with most commonly available Dwarf Cichlids and Gouramis, but care should be taken to avoid pairing them with very small species, slow-moving fish, or fish with intricate finnage.
Fireline Danios prefer a well-oxygenated aquarium with a reasonable flow rate, as they love to swim against the current. Given that they naturally inhabit pristine habitats, these fish require excellent water conditions to thrive and should not be introduced to a biologically immature aquarium. It's also crucial to note that Fireline Danios are prone to bouts of skittish behaviour and may jump out of the aquarium, so a tight-fitting lid is necessary.
These Danios can display different colourations depending on their mood and condition. Still, typically they have a faint lateral stripe on the body extending into the caudal fin and a prominent cleithral spot behind the gill cover. Their body's top and front half are silvery, contrasted with a reddish-orange hue on the lower back. All fins are transparent except for the caudal fin, which features some beautiful orange shading. Overall, Fireline Danios are a beautiful and entertaining species that can bring a touch of colour and activity to any peaceful community aquarium.
Fireline Danio Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Fireline Danios is a relatively uncomplicated task. Males exhibit a more svelte and diminutive physique adorned in vivid and intense hues. Conversely, sexually mature females are distinguishably bulkier, less vibrant in colouration, and generally slightly larger than their male counterparts.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Devario sondhii |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1934 |
| Other Names | Burmese Gold Line Rose Danio |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Devario |
| Origins | Myanmar |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Lifespan | Up to 8 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 12 |
| TDS | 18 - 90 |
| ℉ | 68 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 26 |
Natural habitat
Fireline Danios originate from the picturesque wetlands and ponds of the Southern Shan State in Myanmar and the Salween Basin in Southeast Asia, where they can be found inhabiting the shallow, crystal-clear waters brimming with lush plant life. Interestingly, Fireline Danios have also been observed to share their habitat with another popular and charismatic aquarium species, the Celestichthys margaritatus or the Celestial Pearl Danio. Together, these species create a stunning and harmonious aquatic environment that truly captures the beauty of Southeast Asia.
How to breed the Fireline Danio
Fireline Danios, like other small Cyprinids, engage in egg-scattering free spawning with no parental care. Although they will spawn in a well-planted aquarium, the yield can be maximized with a more controlled approach. To achieve this, it is recommended to condition a group of adult Danios together and set up a separate breeding tank filled with mature water.
The breeding tank should have a mesh or pebbles at the bottom, or alternatively, fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. The water should be slightly acidic to neutral, and the temperature needs to be higher than their usual aquarium. An air-powered sponge filter or air stone should be included for water movement and oxygenation.
Once the females are full of eggs, one or two pairs should be introduced into the breeding tank. If the fish are ready, spawning usually occurs within 24 hours, and after 48 hours, the adults should be removed.
The incubation period is temperature-dependent, but the young typically become free-swimming a few days later. Therefore, Infusoria or Paramecium should be the initial food, followed by Artemia nauplii, microworm, and powdered dry foods once the fry are large enough to accept them.
Diet & feeding
In the context of an aquarium, Fireline Danios are considered to be a highly adaptable species that readily accepts a wide range of food items. While high-quality dried products like flakes, granules, or pellets can serve as the main component of their diet, it is recommended to supplement this with frequent offerings of small live and frozen foods like daphnia, bloodworm, and artemia. Such a varied diet will not only promote optimal health and colouration but also satisfy the natural feeding instincts of Fireline Danios.
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