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Laos Danio - Devario Laoensis : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
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Introduction
Laos Danios (Devario Laoensis) are a captivating addition to any peaceful community aquarium, bringing both beauty and vitality. These fish, known for their peaceful nature and remarkable hardiness, are particularly well-suited for beginners in the hobby. As a shoaling species, it is recommended to maintain Laos Danios in groups of six or more individuals to foster their natural social dynamics.
When selecting tankmates for these Danios, a diverse range of small Cyprinids, Danio species, livebearers, Tetras, Rasboras, bottom-dwellers such as Catfish and Loaches, Gobies, and Dwarf shrimp can make excellent companions. Additionally, popular Gouramis and Dwarf Cichlids can also coexist harmoniously. However, caution should be exercised with smaller or slow-moving species and those with intricate finnage.
Creating the ideal aquarium environment for Laos Danios involves ensuring a reasonable flow rate and proper oxygenation. These active swimmers will relish the opportunity to navigate against the current, mimicking their natural behaviour. It is important to note that Laos Danios are intolerant to extreme organic pollutants, necessitating regular maintenance and pristine water conditions. Never introduce them into an aquarium that is not biologically mature.
Due to their occasional skittish behaviour, providing a tight-fitting cover for the aquarium is essential, as Laos Danios have been known to leap out if startled. While limited information is available regarding their care in captivity, these fish should thrive in a well-maintained setup reminiscent of a flowing river or stream. Consider incorporating a substrate consisting of various-sized smooth rocks, sand or fine gravel complemented by driftwood roots or branches. Hardy aquatic plants such as Anubias, Microsorum, and Bolbitis can further enhance the natural aesthetics of their environment.
The exquisite appearance of Laos Danios is characterized by a silvery bronze body adorned with a faint yet distinct, dark lateral stripe extending from the mid-body to the caudal fin. Within this stripe, two broken orange lines add a charming touch. Additionally, notable features include a central bar on the anal fin and a submarginal stripe adorning the dorsal fin. Witnessing the graceful movements of these captivating fish brings a sense of tranquillity to any aquarium setting.
Laos Danio Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Laos Danios can present particular challenges. Sexually mature females typically exhibit rounder bellies, subdued colouration, and a slightly larger size compared to their male counterparts. However, during the breeding phase, the most discernible distinction becomes apparent. Dominant males undergo a striking transformation, with the lower half of their body assuming a vibrant orange hue, further enhancing their visual allure.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Devario Laoensis |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1940 |
| Other Names | None |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cypriniformes |
| Family | Cyprinidae |
| Genus | Devario |
| Origins | Laos Thailand |
| Max Size | 6.5 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 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 12 |
| TDS | 18 - 179 |
| ℉ | 73 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 26 |
Natural habitat
Laos Danios, known for their intriguing natural habitat, are primarily found in Ban Nam Khueng, nestled within the picturesque landscapes of northwestern Laos. However, these captivating fish have also been documented in various locations within the upper Mekong watershed, spanning both Thailand and Laos in Southeast Asia. Thriving within streams and rivers at relatively high altitudes, these resilient species experience abundant rainfall, particularly between the months of May and October. As a result, their preferred habitats are typically characterized by hill streams and small rivers, boasting a diverse substrate composition of gravel and rocks of varying sizes. These unique ecosystems showcase minimal overhanging vegetation, allowing for the dynamic flow of water that constantly changes with the passage of time and the shifting seasons.
How to breed the Laos Danio
Regrettably, there is a shortage of information on the specific breeding methods of Laos Danios, and no documented records of successful breeding attempts exist. However, we can infer that they would likely exhibit similar reproductive behaviours to other species within the Davario genus.
Under favourable conditions, such as a well-planted and established aquarium, coupled with optimal health and condition, it is not uncommon for small numbers of fry to spontaneously appear without any intervention. However, should you desire to increase the fry yield in a more controlled manner, a deliberate approach is necessary. While conditioning the adult group together remains unchanged, setting up a separate aquarium with mature water becomes imperative.
It is advisable to light the breeding aquarium dimly for optimal results, and the substrate should be covered with mesh featuring adequately sized openings to allow eggs to drop through while preventing adult fish access. Alternatively, plastic grass matting or marbles can serve as viable alternatives. Supplementing the environment with fine-leaved plants like java moss or employing spawning mops can yield satisfactory outcomes. Maintaining a slightly acidic to neutral water pH is essential, with a minor increase in temperature being beneficial. To ensure water movement and oxygenation, a small air-powered sponge filter or air stone is recommended.
Once the adults have been adequately conditioned and the females exhibit signs of being laden with eggs, introducing one or two pairs into the breeding tank is advisable. Spawning typically occurs within 24 hours, characterized by a noticeable slimming of the female. Approximately 48 hours later, removing the adult fish from the breeding tank promptly is crucial. The incubation period, influenced to some extent by temperature, typically spans 24 to 36 hours. Following this period, the fry will commence free-swimming. In the initial stages, nourishing the fry with Paramecium or similar infusoria is ideal, gradually introducing artemia nauplii, microworms, powdered foods, or suitable dry alternatives once the fry reaches a size that enables their acceptance.
Although the breeding techniques for Laos Danios remain elusive, these suggested measures and insights into their reproductive behaviour can serve as a foundation for enthusiasts seeking to unravel the mysteries of breeding these captivating fish.
Diet & feeding
In their natural habitat, Laos Danios primarily subsist on insects and their larvae. However, within the confines of an aquarium, they exhibit an adaptable feeding behaviour and readily accept a wide range of food offerings. While a high-quality dried food can serve as a staple diet, augmenting their nutrition with regular servings of live, frozen, or freeze-dried foods is essential. Incorporating nourishing options such as daphnia, bloodworms, and brine shrimp will enhance your fish's vibrant colouration and contribute to their overall health and well-being.
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