Malabar Dario (Dario urops)

Family: Badidae

Malabar Dario — a Badidae freshwater fish. Reaches 1.8–2.6 cm; keep at 14–30 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
14–30 °C
pH
6–8
GH hardness
5–19 dGH
Adult length
1.8–2.6 cm
Minimum tank
25 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful community fish

Species overview

Dario urops of the family Badidae is an aquarium-kept Badidae. Peaceful community fish and omnivore; quality prepared foods, it grows to 1.8–2.6 cm and prefers 14–30 °C water. Other Dario species in our database include Dario dario, Dario huli, Dario hysginon.

Native biotope

Habitat
Warm freshwater streams and lakes
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate oxygen levels

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine sand and gravel
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones
Plants
Hardy common aquarium plants

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Small groups recommended
Diet
Omnivore; quality prepared foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Subtle external differences
Breeding method
Not documented in home aquaria

Frequently asked questions

Is Malabar Dario easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Peaceful community fish. Small groups recommended.

What temperature and water chemistry does Malabar Dario need?

Hold 14–30 °C and keep it stable — 14.0–30.0 °C typical for the family. Stable temperature matching the species origin.

How big does Malabar Dario get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 1.8–2.6 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 25 litres.

What does Malabar Dario eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Malabar Dario live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful community fish — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Malabar Dario come from?

Found in warm freshwater streams and lakes; expect still to gentle current and moderate oxygen levels.

Does Malabar Dario jump?

Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.

How does Malabar Dario breed?

Not documented in home aquaria. Subtle external differences.