斯里兰卡 · Barred 'Danio'

Overview

Seven to eleven irregular dark-blue bars on the front of the flanks and a short rear stripe characterize Devario pathirana. It is more combative than many relatives and may nip extended fins, so it should not be treated as an indiscriminately peaceful community fish.

Distribution & habitat

Known populations are restricted to small streams in the Nilwala drainage of southwestern Sri Lanka, including waters leaving Kanneliya Forest Reserve. Clear water flows among smooth sandstone, sand and silt. Small groups use riffles, rapids and deeper pools. Agriculture and sand extraction have damaged surrounding forest cover and water quality.

Aquarium setup

Provide a spacious river-style aquarium with sand, gravel, rounded rocks, wood and tough attached plants. Keep organic pollution low through effective maintenance and weekly changes of roughly a third to half of the water. Good oxygenation and moderate flow are appropriate; extreme current is unnecessary. Fit a secure cover against jumping.

Diet & feeding

Insects and larvae are considered the most likely natural foods. Captive fish generally accept prepared diets, which should be complemented by regular small live or frozen meals.

Behaviour & compatibility

Choose robust fishes of comparable size for a large aquarium. Avoid trailing fins and very slow or timid companions. Six to ten or more conspecifics help spread competition, reducing the chance that a single subordinate receives repeated harassment. Wild observations of a comparatively localized lifestyle do not mean that aquarium social conflict can be ignored.

Sexual dimorphism

Mature females are slightly larger, fuller in the abdomen and less colorful.

Breeding

Limited commercial breeding is established. A home attempt can follow the general devario approach: a separate dim aquarium with mature water, gentle aeration and fine plants, mops or mesh protecting scattered eggs. Condition adults first, then remove them after spawning to limit egg eating. Feed fry microscopic organisms initially, progressing to larger live foods and finely powdered diets.

Notes

The narrow wild range and damaged habitat make captive origin worth checking. Trade names referring to tiger patterning or Ceylon do not replace a species-level identification.