The Celestial Pearl Danio, also known as Galaxy Rasbora, is a breathtaking jewel of the aquatic world. Its slender body is adorned with a mesmerizing palette of vibrant hues. Picture an artist’s brush delicately blending shades of electric blue and emerald green, creating a harmonious symphony of colours that seem to dance under the shimmering aquarium lights. The luminous scales reflect the light, giving the fish an ethereal glow. A closer look reveals the intricate pattern of pearly spots scattered across its body, reminiscent of a starry night sky. The fins, ablaze with fiery oranges and reds, provide a stunning contrast against the iridescent backdrop. Seeing these captivating creatures in person is like witnessing a living work of art, a captivating masterpiece that enchants and delights the eyes.
THE BIG QUESTION??? is The Celestial Pearl Danio AkA Galaxy Rasbora A Danio or a Rasbora?
It is most definately a DANIO
The Celestial Pearl Danio AKA Galaxy Rasbora, scientifically known as Danio margaritatus, has been the subject of taxonomic debate and confusion in the aquarium community. Initially, this species was described as a member of the Rasbora genus by Kottelat and Witte in 1999. They named it “Microrasbora sp. ‘Galaxy’.” However, further examination and research led to a reclassification.
In 2008, Dr. Tan Heok Hui, a fish taxonomist, reassessed the species and determined that it should be classified under the Danio genus. The revised name, Danio margaritatus, was proposed and widely accepted. This correction in taxonomy helped clarify the relationship of the Celestial Pearl Danio with other members of the Danio genus. So Galaxy Rasbora is totally wrong
Danio margaritatus, Natural Habitat:
In their natural habitat, the Celestial Pearl Danios inhabit shallow forest streams and peat swamps. These environments are characterized by slow-moving waters and an abundance of vegetation. Fallen leaves, branches, and roots create hiding spots and provide shelter for these fish. The waters are often stained with tannins, resulting in a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The presence of dense vegetation, including submerged plants and floating debris, offers protection and foraging opportunities.
Our Celestial Pearl Danio are Tank Bred Heres Why:
Our Celestial Pearl Danio (Danio margaritatus) specimens available in the aquarium trade are primarily tank bred. This practice of breeding them in captivity has become crucial for several reasons, one of which is the conservation of their wild populations.
By relying on captive breeding programs, we can help reduce the demand for wild-caught specimens, alleviating the pressure on their natural habitats. The wild populations of Celestial Pearl Danios are limited and vulnerable due to habitat loss and overcollection for the aquarium trade. The increased popularity of tank-bred specimens has contributed to the conservation efforts by reducing the need to collect from the wild.
Tank breeding also offers several benefits. It allows for the selection and breeding of individuals with desirable traits, such as vibrant colours and robust health. This selective breeding helps maintain and enhance the genetic diversity of the captive population. Furthermore, tank-bred specimens are generally more acclimated to aquarium conditions, making them hardier and more adaptable to captive environments.
By supporting the availability and purchase of tank-bred Celestial Pearl Danios, aquarists can actively participate in the conservation of this species. It not only ensures the sustainability of their population in the wild but also provides enthusiasts with the opportunity to appreciate and enjoy these captivating fish without negatively impacting their natural habitats.
Keeping Celestial Pearl Danio Healthy:
The care level for Celestial Pearl Danios is considered moderate. They require stable water conditions and regular monitoring of water parameters. Provide them with a well-maintained aquarium with a minimum size of 10 gallons (37 litres). Maintain the water temperature between 72°F and 78°F (22°C and 26°C) and the pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. Keep the carbonate hardness (KH) between 2 and 10 dKH. Perform regular water changes and ensure proper filtration to maintain water quality.
Special Requirements and Feeding:
Celestial Pearl Danios are omnivorous, and their diet should consist of a balanced mix of high-quality dry flakes or pellets. Supplement their diet with small live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and micro worms. Offer a variety of food types to ensure they receive proper nutrition. They will also graze on algae and small organisms in the aquarium. Ensure that the food is appropriate in size for their small mouths.
How Many Should I Keep:
Celestial Pearl Danios are social fish that thrive in the company of their own kind. It is recommended to keep them in small groups of at least six individuals or more. This helps promote natural behaviour, reduces stress, and enhances their overall well-being.
Extremely Popular Fish, Why?
Celestial Pearl Danios AkA Galaxy Rasbora are highly sought after for several reasons. Their vibrant and striking appearance, small size, and peaceful nature make them a popular choice among aquarists.
Their distinctive pattern of iridescent blue and orange spots on a shimmering silver body is captivating and adds a touch of elegance to any aquarium. Their small size, typically reaching about 1 inch (2.5 cm), makes them suitable for both small and large tanks, allowing aquarists with limited space to enjoy their beauty.
These fish are known for their peaceful and non-aggressive behaviour, making them compatible with a wide range of tank mates. Their calm demeanour and lack of territoriality create a harmonious community tank environment.
Their active and playful nature adds liveliness to the aquarium, as they constantly swim and explore their surroundings. Watching them dart in and out of plants and interact with each other can be a delightful spectacle.
Lighting Preference:
Celestial Pearl Danios often wronglt called Galaxy Rasbora prefer moderate lighting conditions in the aquarium. Provide them with a well-lit tank, but also incorporate areas of shade or floating plants to mimic their natural habitat. This combination of light and shade helps create a visually appealing and comfortable environment for the fish.
Suitable Tank Mates:
Celestial Pearl Danios are peaceful and can coexist with other small, non-aggressive fish species. Good tank mates include other small rasboras, tetras, and peaceful dwarf shrimp. Avoid housing them with larger or aggressive fish that may intimidate or harm them.
Breeding Celestial Pearl Danio:
Breeding Danio margaritatus, commonly known as Celestial Pearl Danio, can be a rewarding experience for aquarists. Here are some detailed insights into their breeding process:
- Breeding Setup: To encourage breeding, provide a well-maintained aquarium with appropriate water parameters. Use a separate breeding tank or provide suitable breeding media, such as fine-leaved plants like Java moss or spawning mops, where the fish can deposit their eggs.
- Conditioning: Before attempting to breed, it’s important to condition the adult Celestial Pearl Danios. Offer them a varied diet of high-quality foods, including live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia, to ensure they are in optimal breeding condition.
- Temperature and Water Quality: Maintain the water temperature between 75-79°F (24-26°C) for breeding. Ensure the water quality is excellent, with proper filtration and regular water changes to simulate their natural habitat.
- Spawning Behavior: Celestial Pearl Danios are egg scatterers, meaning they lay adhesive eggs that stick to plants or other surfaces. The males will display their vibrant colors and engage in chasing and courtship behavior towards the females. During spawning, the male will position himself next to the female, and the female will release her eggs while the male fertilizes them.
- Egg Collection: After spawning, it’s advisable to remove the adult fish from the breeding tank to prevent them from consuming the eggs. Carefully inspect the plants or breeding media to locate the adhesive eggs. Gently transfer the eggs to a separate container or incubation setup to ensure their safety and optimal hatching conditions.
- Incubation and Hatching: Transfer the eggs to a separate container with suitable water parameters matching the main tank. Maintain optimal water temperature and provide gentle aeration. The eggs will typically hatch within 24-48 hours, depending on water conditions.
- Fry Care: Once the fry hatch, they are tiny and require microscopic foods, such as infusoria or liquid fry food, for the first few days. As they grow, gradually introduce finely crushed flake or baby brine shrimp to their diet. Ensure proper water quality and perform regular water changes to keep the fry healthy and thriving.
Breeding Celestial Pearl Danios can be challenging due to their specific requirements and the need for appropriate breeding setup and conditions. However, with patience, proper care, and attention to their needs, you can increase the chances of successful breeding and enjoy the beauty of their offspring in your aquarium.
Sexual Dimorphism:
Male and female Celestial Pearl Danios exhibit subtle differences in appearance. Males are generally more colourful and vibrant, with deeper shades of blue-green and brighter orange-red fins. They also have a more elongated dorsal fin. Females, on the other hand, tend to be slightly larger and have a rounder belly. While these differences exist, they can be challenging to discern, especially in younger or less mature individuals.
Lifespan:
In proper aquarium conditions, Celestial Pearl Danios can live for about 3 to 5 years. Providing them with a suitable environment, a balanced diet, and proper care can contribute to their longevity.
Distribution:
The Celestial Pearl Danio is native to a limited region in Myanmar (formerly Burma) in Southeast Asia. It was initially discovered in a small area near Hopong village in the Shan State. However, due to its popularity in the aquarium trade, it has been widely distributed and bred in captivity. It is essential to note that while captive-bred populations are readily available, efforts to conserve and protect the species in its natural habitat are crucial.
Summary:
The Celestial Pearl Danio, also known as Galaxy Rasbora, is a small and visually striking fish with iridescent blue-green bodies and orange-red fins. They prefer well-maintained aquariums with stable water conditions, moderate lighting, and the company of their own kind. They have a moderate care level and require a balanced diet of high-quality dry flakes or pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods. Celestial Pearl Danios are peaceful and suitable for community aquariums with other small, non-aggressive fish species. They can be bred in separate breeding tanks with appropriate conditions. While they are relatively delicate in terms of care, providing them with the right environment and attention can ensure their health and longevity.
Denise parr (verified owner) –
I bought some of these little fish in November, they are really lovely to watch swimming around. I enjoy watching them so much I have just ordered some more . Came well packaged , followed all instructions on delivery, so I have happy fish . Thank you
Rennie Lee (verified owner) –
Also got some of these, great peaceful little fish, and hardy, I have some in my tropical tank, and some in my temperate tank- they seem to do equally as well.
Anne Carnelley – Lamb (verified owner) –
I ordered a group of these to add to ones I already had. They arrived healthy and settled quickly into the quarantine tank.
Clear directions are provided to help you acclimatise them. These are beautiful, peaceful fish and a joy to watch.
I have had difficulty with new Celestial Pearl Danio being picky eaters, in the past, so I contacted Abbyss to ask what brand etc they had been feeding. I received a response within the hour and ordred the same food. This arrived rapidly too.
So far these fish seem happy and active and are eating well. Very happy with the fish I have received and the service has been great.