Danio Starfire Red: A Stunning and Active Aquarium Fish

Characteristics

The Danio Starfire Red is a selectively bred variant of the Danio species, admired for its brilliant red coloration and energetic swimming behavior. Like other danios, it is hardy, easy to care for, and highly active, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

• Scientific Name: [Pending confirmation] (likely Danio rerio variant)
• Natural Habitat: Originally from South and Southeast Asia, but this color variant is selectively bred
• Behavior: Active, social, and schooling
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (for a small school)
• Ideal Water Parameters:
  • pH: 6.5 – 7.5
  • Hardness: 4 – 12 dGH
  • Temperature: 70 – 78°F (21 – 26°C)
• Care Level: Easy

Origin and Distribution

The Danio Starfire Red is not found in the wild, as it is a color-enhanced strain of danios, possibly a GloFish variant. Its natural ancestors, primarily Zebra Danios (Danio rerio), originate from India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, where they inhabit slow-moving streams, rice paddies, and shallow waters.

Colors and Markings

The Danio Starfire Red is named for its intense red coloration, which appears almost glowing under aquarium lighting. Key features include:

• Bright red or orange body with a shimmering effect
• Slender, torpedo-shaped body ideal for fast swimming
• Translucent or slightly tinted fins

This color variant makes for a striking display fish, especially in a well-lit aquarium.

Tankmates

Being peaceful and social, the Danio Starfire Red thrives in schooling groups of at least six or more and pairs well with:

• Other Danios (Zebra Danios, Pearl Danios, Celestial Pearl Danios)
• Tetras (Neon Tetra, Ember Tetra, Rummy Nose Tetra)
• Rasboras (Harlequin Rasbora, Chili Rasbora)
• Corydoras Catfish
• Small Livebearers (Guppies, Platies, Mollies)

Avoid housing them with slow-moving, long-finned fish (such as Bettas) as danios are fast swimmers and may cause stress.

Care Requirements

The Danio Starfire Red is low-maintenance, but a stable and well-oxygenated tank ensures their health and vibrancy.

• Filtration: A hang-on-back or sponge filter works well.
• Lighting: Moderate to bright lighting enhances their red coloration.
• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand works best.
• Aquascaping: Provide open swimming space, with driftwood, plants (Anubias, Java Fern, Hornwort), and floating plants for variety.

Perform weekly 20-30% water changes to maintain water clarity.

Diet and Feeding

The Danio Starfire Red is an omnivore, requiring a varied diet to maintain its color and energy. Offer:

• Staple Foods: High-quality flakes or micro pellets
• Live/Frozen Foods: Daphnia, brine shrimp, bloodworms
• Vegetable Matter: Blanched zucchini, spirulina-based foods

Feed small portions 2-3 times daily, ensuring they consume all food within a few minutes.

Gender Differences

Males and females show subtle differences:

• Males: Slightly slimmer and more colorful
• Females: Larger and rounder, especially when carrying eggs

Breeding

Breeding Danio Starfire Red is relatively easy, as they are egg scatterers that do not care for their young.

Breeding Setup:

1. Use a separate breeding tank (5-10 gallons) with a sponge filter.
2. Add fine-leaved plants or a breeding mesh to protect eggs.
3. Condition adults with high-protein foods (live or frozen).
4. Spawning occurs at dawn, with females scattering eggs on plants/substrate.
5. Remove adults after spawning, as they may eat the eggs.
6. Eggs hatch in 48-72 hours, and fry become free-swimming soon after.
7. Feed fry infusoria or powdered fry food, then transition to baby brine shrimp.

With proper care, fry grow quickly and take on their vivid red coloration as they mature.

Additional Resources

For more danio care and breeding tips, explore:

• Beginner’s Guide to Keeping Danios
• Top 10 Schooling Fish for Community Tanks
• Best Tank Setups for Active Swimmers

The Danio Starfire Red is a stunning and energetic species, perfect for aquarists who love colorful, fast-moving fish. Whether in a community tank or a species-only setup, this danio will bring vibrancy and excitement to any aquarium!