Black / Blue Zebra Danios |1-2cms | Single

Black/Blue Zebra Danios (Danio rerio var.) are striking color variations of the classic Zebra Danio. These fish have a shimmering dark blue or black hue, making their iconic horizontal stripes stand out beautifully. Known for their hardy nature, activity, and adaptability, they are a fantastic choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
Key Characteristics of Black/Blue Zebra Danios:
Size: Typically 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm) in length.
Color: Dark blue or black body with lighter horizontal stripes running along the sides.
Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care.
Behavior: Active, schooling fish that thrive in groups of 6 or more.
Activity Level: Energetic swimmers, often seen darting in the mid-to-upper levels of the tank.
Water Parameters for Black/Blue Zebra Danios:
Temperature: 18–24°C (64–75°F); tolerates cooler water well.
pH: 6.5–7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.
Hardness: 5–12 dGH.
Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons for small groups, with larger tanks preferred for bigger schools.
Tank Setup:
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel, though they don't interact with the substrate much.
Plants: Floating and rooted plants like Java moss, Anubias, or Hornwort provide cover and enhance the tank's aesthetics.
Lighting: Moderate to bright lighting highlights their dark, shimmering coloration.
Water Flow: Moderate water movement mimics their natural habitat and supports their activity.
Decor: Open swimming areas interspersed with decorations like driftwood and rocks.
Diet:
Black/Blue Zebra Danios are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet:
Staple Foods: High-quality flakes or micro-pellets.
Protein-Rich Foods: Live or frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Vegetables: Finely chopped blanched spinach, zucchini, or spirulina-based foods for added nutrition.
Behavior and Tankmates:
Behavior: Peaceful and social, but they may nip fins if kept in inadequate groups or under stress.
Tankmates:
Compatible Species: Guppies, mollies, tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and other peaceful fish.
Avoid: Slow-moving or long-finned species like bettas or angelfish, as danios may nip at their fins.
Breeding Black/Blue Zebra Danios:
These fish are prolific egg scatterers and relatively easy to breed:
Breeding Tank: Set up a separate tank with fine gravel or a spawning mop to protect eggs.
Conditioning: Feed breeding pairs a high-protein diet of live or frozen foods to stimulate spawning.
Spawning: Males chase females during courtship, and eggs are scattered among plants or substrate.
Egg Care: Remove adults after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.
Fry Care: Feed fry with infusoria or liquid fry food, transitioning to finely crushed flakes as they grow.
Care Tips:
Schooling Needs: Keep them in groups of 6 or more to ensure they feel secure and behave naturally.
Tank Lid: These fish are jumpers, so a secure tank lid is a must.
Water Quality: Regular maintenance and stable conditions are essential for their health and longevity.
Why Choose Black/Blue Zebra Danios?
Striking Appearance: Their dark, shimmering colors and bold stripes make them visually stunning.
Hardy Nature: Excellent for beginners, they are forgiving of minor water parameter fluctuations.
Lively Behavior: Their constant activity adds energy and life to any aquarium.
Community-Friendly: They get along well with a wide range of peaceful fish.
Conclusion:
Black/Blue Zebra Danios are a beautiful and lively addition to any freshwater tank. Their unique coloration, ease of care, and engaging behavior make them a favorite among aquarists. With proper care and the right environment, these fish will thrive and bring a dynamic visual appeal to your aquarium.