Giant Danio (2.5”)

Scientific Name: Devario aequipinnatus

Maximum Size and Lifespan:
The giant danio can grow up to 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in length, making it one of the largest danio species. With proper care, they typically live 5–7 years, though some may reach up to 8 years in ideal conditions.

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes, and Care:
Because of their size and high activity level, a minimum 20-30 gallon aquarium is recommended for a small group. They thrive in tanks with strong filtration and moderate water flow, as they are riverine fish that enjoy currents.

PH 6.0-7.8

Water Temperature : 70-80 Degrees

Weekly water changes of 25–35% are ideal to maintain water quality. The aquarium should include open swimming space with a tight-fitting lid, as giant danios are excellent jumpers.

Tankmates:
Giant danios are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6 or more to reduce stress and prevent aggression. They are generally peaceful but active, so tankmates should be robust and able to handle their fast swimming. Suitable companions include:

• Barbs (tiger, rosy, tinfoil, etc.), Larger tetras (Buenos Aires, Congo), Rainbowfish, Peaceful cichlids (severums, angelfish, some dwarf species), Catfish (plecos, Corydoras, synodontis)

Avoid very small or slow fish, such as guppies or bettas, as they may be chased or stressed.

Diet:
Giant danios are omnivorous and enjoy a varied diet. In the aquarium they will accept:

• High-quality flakes and pellets

• Frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp

• spirulina-based foods

A balanced diet with both protein and plant matter will keep them healthy and brightly colored.

Overview:
Giant danios are energetic, hardy, and long-lived fish that make excellent additions to larger community aquariums. Their shimmering blue-and-gold coloration, combined with their fast swimming and shoaling behavior, makes them a striking display fish. However, they require space, good water quality, and tankmates that can keep up with their activity level.

Natural Environment:
In the wild, giant danios are found in fast-flowing rivers and streams across South and Southeast Asia, particularly in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. They inhabit clear, oxygen-rich waters with rocky or sandy substrates and plenty of swimming space.

Breeding:
Giant danios are egg scatterers. To breed them in captivity:

• Use a separate breeding tank with a mesh or marbles at the bottom to protect eggs.

• Condition adults with high-protein foods (live and frozen).

• Spawning usually occurs in the early morning after a large water change with slightly cooler water.

• The female may release hundreds of eggs, which the male fertilizes in open water.

• Remove adults immediately after spawning, as they will eat the eggs.

• Eggs hatch in about 24–36 hours, and fry become free-swimming in 3–4 days. They can be fed infusoria initially, followed by baby brine shrimp.