Cross-striped Dwarf Rasbora (Danio erythromicron)

Family: Cyprinidae

Cross-striped Dwarf Rasbora — a Cyprinidae from South & Southeast Asia, hardy, active mid-water fish; never stop moving. Reaches 2.3–3.4 cm; tight schooler; the more the livelier. 18–24 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–24 °C
pH
6–8
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
2.3–3.4 cm
Minimum tank
25 L
Water layer
Active throughout the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Hardy, active mid-water fish; never stop moving
Origin
South & Southeast Asia

Species overview

From the waters of South & Southeast Asia comes Danio erythromicron, a member of the family Cyprinidae. A restless micropredator of the surface film, evolved for open, sunlit water. It uses the whole water column. Adults reach 2.3–3.4 cm. Tight schooler; the more the livelier. Generous swimming room, a big school and clean water cover nearly all of its care. Maintain 18–24 °C at pH 6–8. Water quality and diet matter more than décor.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow
Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape
Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants
Hardy rooted plants along the margins

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Tight schooler; the more the livelier
Diet
Eager eater; small frequent feeds suit its pace
Recommended tankmates
  • Other danios and small rasboras — Form a fast, peaceful upper-water school
Avoid keeping with
  • Slow, timid fish — Outcompeted at the surface

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer among plants; no parental care