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

Danio erythromicron, a member of the family Cyprinidae, comes from South & Southeast Asia, where it inhabits clear streams and rivers over gravel. Hardy, active mid-water fish; never stop moving and eager eater; small frequent feeds suit its pace, it grows to 2.3–3.4 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 18–24 °C range. Other Danio species in our database include Danio margaritatus, Danio rerio, Danio albolineatus.

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

Frequently asked questions

Is Cross-striped Dwarf Rasbora easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: hardy, active mid-water fish; never stop moving; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Cross-striped Dwarf Rasbora need?

Hold 18–24 °C and keep it stable — 18.0–24.0 °C typical for the genus. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin.

How big does Cross-striped Dwarf Rasbora get, and what tank size?

Expect 2.3–3.4 cm as an adult, living active throughout the water column. A 25 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Cross-striped Dwarf Rasbora eat?

Eager eater; small frequent feeds suit its pace. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Cross-striped Dwarf Rasbora live with other fish?

Hardy, active mid-water fish; never stop moving. Recommended tankmates: Other danios and small rasboras — Form a fast, peaceful upper-water school. Avoid Slow, timid fish — Outcompeted at the surface.

Where does Cross-striped Dwarf Rasbora come from?

Native to South & Southeast Asia, where it lives in clear streams and rivers over gravel. Moderate, well-oxygenated current; Appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Cross-striped Dwarf Rasbora jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Cross-striped Dwarf Rasbora breed?

Egg-scatterer among plants; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.