Live fish will be delivered only to selected pincodes in Kolkata and nearby areas. The Galaxy Rasbora, more accurately known as the Celestial Pearl Danio (Danio margaritatus), is a small, stunning...
Live fish will be delivered only to selected pincodes in Kolkata and nearby areas.
The Galaxy Rasbora, more accurately known as the Celestial Pearl Danio (Danio margaritatus), is a small, stunning freshwater fish famous for its galaxy-like coloration. With shimmering spots and bright orange fins, it's a favorite in nano aquariums and planted tanks.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Common Name | Galaxy Rasbora, Celestial Pearl Danio (CPD) |
Scientific Name | Danio margaritatus |
Family | Cyprinidae (carps and minnows) |
Origin | Myanmar (Lake Inle region) |
Discovered | 2006 (a very recent aquarium addition) |
Type | Small, peaceful schooling fish |
Lifespan | 3–5 years |
Size | 0.8–1 inch (2–2.5 cm) |
Conservation | Previously overfished; now mostly captive-bred |
Body Color: Iridescent dark blue to greenish-black
Spots: Creamy-white or gold, resembling stars on a night sky (hence "galaxy")
Fins: Males have bright orange-red fins with black edging; females are paler
Sex Differences:
Males: Slimmer, more colorful with vivid fin markings
Females: Rounder belly, duller coloration
Temperament: Peaceful but shy
Social Structure: Schooling – best kept in groups of 6–10+
Tank Level: Mid to lower swimmers
Male Behavior: Mild territorial displays; males flare fins and “dance” during courtship
Parameter | Ideal Range |
---|---|
Tank Size | Minimum 10 gallons for a group |
School Size | 6 or more (10+ better for natural behavior) |
Water Temperature | 72–78°F (22–26°C) |
pH Range | 6.5–7.5 |
Water Hardness | Soft to moderately hard (3–12 dGH) |
Filtration | Gentle flow; sponge or low-flow filter |
Substrate | Dark substrate enhances colors |
Décor | Dense plants, moss, driftwood, hiding spots |
Lighting | Moderate to low (reduces stress and enhances color) |
These fish are sensitive to water changes and poor water quality—stable parameters are key.
Type: Omnivore (micro-predator in nature)
Best Foods:
High-quality micro pellets or nano flakes
Frozen/live: baby brine shrimp, daphnia, microworms, grindal worms
Occasional vegetable matter: spirulina flakes, crushed algae wafers
Feed small portions 1–2 times daily. A varied diet enhances color and breeding behavior.
Compatible Tankmates | Avoid |
---|---|
Small rasboras, chili rasboras | Large or aggressive fish (e.g. cichlids) |
Corydoras catfish (especially pygmy types) | Fast, boisterous fish |
Shrimp (e.g. cherry, amano) | Betta (may attack or be attacked) |
Otocinclus catfish | Anything that could see them as food |
CPDs thrive in peaceful community tanks with soft water and gentle companions.
Common Issues | Prevention/Treatment |
---|---|
Stress from shipping | Buy from local breeders or reputable sources |
Ich (white spots) | Quarantine new fish; raise temperature & treat |
Fin rot | Clean water and avoid nippy tankmates |
Bloating | Avoid overfeeding; include fiber in diet |
Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care
Breeding Type: Egg scatterers
Breeding Behavior:
Males court females with fin-flaring displays
Females scatter eggs over fine-leaved plants or moss
Spawning Tips:
Use a separate breeding tank (5–10 gallons)
Add Java moss or spawning mops
Keep 1–2 males with 2–3 females
Egg & Fry Care:
Adults may eat eggs—remove parents post-spawning
Eggs hatch in ~3 days; fry swim freely after 2–3 more
Feed fry infusoria or powdered food, then baby brine shrimp
CPDs breed readily in aquariums but fry are tiny and delicate.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Stunning coloration and peaceful behavior | Shy and easily stressed |
Great for nano tanks and planted setups | Not suitable with large or boisterous fish |
Easy to breed in captivity | Fry require specific care and feeding |
Compatible with shrimp | Sensitive to unstable water conditions |
Trait | Info |
---|---|
Size | ~1 inch (2.5 cm) |
Lifespan | 3–5 years |
Tank Size | 10 gallons minimum |
Temperature | 72–78°F (22–26°C) |
Behavior | Peaceful, shy, schooler |
Breeding | Easy to breed, egg scatterers |
Best Setup | Planted, low-flow nano aquarium |
Tank: 10–20 gallons
Substrate: Dark gravel or sand
Plants: Java moss, Anubias, Rotala, Pogostemon
Filtration: Sponge filter or gentle HOB
Light: Low to moderate (subdued)
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