Description
Spotted Kyathit Danio (Danio kyathit)
Overview
Danio kyathit, commonly known as the orange-finned danio, kyathit danio, or ocelot danio, is a small, vibrant freshwater fish from the Cyprinidae family, native to the fast-flowing streams of the upper Irrawaddy River drainage near Myitkyina, northern Myanmar. Characterized by 5–7 dark horizontal stripes (sometimes broken into spots) and vivid orange-red fins in males, it grows to about 1.5–2 inches (3.5–5 cm). Males are slimmer and more colourful, while females are stockier with clearer fins. Its active, schooling nature and peaceful temperament make it a great addition to community tanks, though it’s less common than other danios like the zebrafish.
Care Requirements
Tank Size:
- Minimum 75L for a school of 8–10; 113L or larger preferred for ample swimming space and group harmony.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 61–79°F (16–26°C); optimal 71–77°F (22–25°C).
- pH: 6.0–7.8 (slightly acidic to neutral).
- Hardness: 2–15 dGH (soft to moderately hard, TDS <150 ppm).
- Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm.
- Nitrate: <50 ppm (ideally <25 ppm).
- Substrate: Fine gravel or sand; darker substrates enhance colouration.
- Décor: Heavily planted with Java moss, Anubias, or Microsorum; include rocks, driftwood, and floating plants (e.g., water lettuce) for shade and hiding spots. Open swimming areas with moderate flow mimic their stream habitat.
- Filtration: Moderate flow via canister or power filters (4–5x tank volume/hour); powerheads can simulate stream currents.
- Lighting: Low to moderate; floating plants diffuse light for comfort.
- Other: Tight-fitting lid mandatory, as they are adept jumpers.
Maintenance
- Water Changes: 20–30% weekly or 25% biweekly with dechlorinated water to maintain low nitrates and stable chemistry. Use anti-chlorine agents to neutralize tap water.
- Tank Cleaning: Siphon debris and uneaten food; lightly clean substrate to preserve beneficial bacteria.
- Testing: Weekly monitoring of pH, hardness, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate with a reliable test kit.
- Equipment Check: Ensure filters provide adequate flow, heaters maintain stable temperatures, and lids are secure to prevent escapes.
Diet
- Type: Omnivorous, primarily micropredatory; feeds on small invertebrates in the wild.
- Foods:
- Dry: High-quality flakes or micro-pellets (e.g., Aqueon Tropical Flakes, Fluval Bug Bites).
- Live/Frozen: Daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms, Artemia (2–3 times weekly for vibrant colours).
- Occasional: Spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables (e.g., spinach) for variety.
- Feeding: Small portions 2–3 times daily, consumed within 2 minutes to avoid water fouling.
- Notes: A varied diet enhances colouration and health. They feed mid-water to surface, so ensure food reaches their level.
Behaviour and Compatibility
- Temperament: Peaceful, active, and shoaling; thrives in groups of 8–10 or more to reduce stress and promote natural schooling.
- Social Behaviour: Gregarious; solitary or small groups (<6) may lead to stress or shyness. Males display vibrant colours when competing for females. Avoid mixing with other gregarious species in small tanks to prevent competition.
- Compatible Tankmates:
- Small, peaceful fish: Neon tetras, harlequin rasboras, white cloud mountain minnows, celestial pearl danios.
- Bottom-dwellers: Corydoras catfish, Otocinclus, kuhli loaches.
- Incompatible: Large or aggressive fish (e.g., cichlids, barbs), fin-nippers, or slow-moving species (e.g., bettas).
- Notes: They act as dither fish, encouraging activity in shy tankmates. A well-planted tank with hiding spots reduces stress.
Breeding Behaviour
Breeding Type: Egg scatterers; spawn over plants or substrate in open water.
