Aquarium Livestock Pet Care Guides

Tetras, Danios & Rasboras

Origin:

Central & South America, SE Asia, Africa

Tank Temperature:

75-82°F

pH:

5.7-7.5, species-specific

Tank Requirements:

Provide plants, driftwood, and plenty of hiding places; also needs open swimming space.

Feeding:

Most are omnivorous; flakes and pellets; should be fed some frozen meaty foods, such as brine shrimp or bloodworms once a week to enhance coloration; may nibble at soft-leaved plants.

Behavior:

Generally peaceful, but some may claim and defend a territory in the presence of other males; schooling.

Compatibility:

Most are Community Safe. Schooling fish should be kept in groups of 6 or more in order to maintain best coloration and behavior. An ideal community can include multiple species of tetras, rasboras, danios, other fish of similar size and temperament. Some large or aggressive species may need a species-only tank.



Species Overview

Many tropical community aquariums are populated with tetras, rasboras and other similar schooling fish. Those these fish are usually rather small, they have fairly pleasant temperaments, exhibit a schooling behavior and a vast variety of colors and shapes that make the popular in the hobby. They can grow anywhere from a few centimeters to a few inches, and can add movement to any freshwater fish tank. Most of these fish fairly easy to care for and have similar water chemistry and care requirements.

Tetras are probably the the largest group of fish offered for community aquariums. They can be distinguished from other schooling community fish by the small adipose fin present between the dorsal fin and the tail. Tetras include small species such as the vibrant Neon and Cardinal Tetras to much larger and more robust species like Buenos Aires Tetras and Congo Tetras.

Danios are commonly recommended as "starter fish" and dither fish. They are fast and active swimmers and they like a long tank to swim in. Danios have interesting markings and are generally hardy and peaceful.

Rasboras are actually small members of the carp family. These schooling fish can be very colorful and are popular for community tanks. The Harlequin Rasbora with its bright orange-pink coloration and bold black triangular markings is popular.

These fish prefer aquariums with plenty plants and ornamentation to explore, but also need plenty of open space to swim. They can be fed commercial flakes, granules and small pellets as a staple diet, with occasional feedings of meaty frozen or freeze dried treats such as bloodworms, plankton, mysis or brine shrimp. They prefer to be kept in groups of six or more to school and feel secure.

We always suggest that you do further research before adding a new pet to your tank. What we have provided for you are guidelines and suggestions. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact our fish room at 717-299-5691 ext. 1213 or marinebio@thatpetplace.com.

Recommended Items

Freshwater Community Food
Artificial Rocks & Wood
Plastic Plants

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