Danio feegradei · Yoma Danio

Overview

Highly active Danio feegradei needs a spacious aquarium despite its modest body size. Flank spotting varies and may disappear entirely in some individuals. Strong social dominance within the group is a significant husbandry concern.

Distribution & habitat

Known from the western slopes of Myanmar’s Rakhine mountains, it inhabits small forest streams north and south of Thandwe. Dry-season channels may contract into interconnected clear pools over stones and gravel, bordered by shrubs and forest. Monsoon rains markedly increase depth and flow.

Aquarium setup

Dark substrate and substantial planting encourage color. Alternatively, combine smooth rocks, gravel, wood, and robust attached plants in a stream-style layout. Provide circulation with calmer retreats rather than a uniform torrent. Cover gaps securely and retain generous swimming length to help reduce pressure on subordinate fish.

Diet & feeding

Insects and larvae probably form much of its natural food. Captive fish generally accept a range of diets. Quality dry foods can form the base, supplemented with small live and frozen foods to support color and condition.

Behaviour & compatibility

Robust, similarly sized fish are more suitable companions than timid or slow-moving species. Keep ten or more to distribute pressure from dominant individuals, while recognizing that fin damage and even losses have occurred. Fish gather tightly when threatened but males regularly spar at other times. Monitor subordinates for feeding access and respite.

Sexual dimorphism

Males are slimmer and more colorful, with orange edging on the pelvic and anal fins; females have white edges. Dominant males can become especially intense in color.

Breeding

This species scatters eggs and provides no parental care. A controlled attempt can adapt methods used for smaller congeners, with more room, fine spawning material or egg-protecting mesh, and one or two conditioned pairs. Small cooler-water additions or an evening water change may stimulate spawning, but this adapted procedure should not be treated as a guaranteed species-specific protocol.

Remove adults when eggs appear and switch to established sponge filtration to protect young. The suggested incubation interval is three to seven days, followed by free swimming roughly one or two days later. Try Artemia nauplii or sufficiently fine nursery food at that stage.