A breathtaking nano fish native to small, vegetated ponds in Myanmar. They feature a midnight blue body covered in pearlescent spots with striking red and black striped fins. CPDs are notoriously shy and require heavily planted aquariums to feel secure. Males will constantly display and mock-spar with each other, so a larger group is essential to disperse this behavior.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard form found in the aquarium trade. Usually sold unsexed. Best kept in groups of 6 or more, ideally with a higher ratio of females to males to reduce stress from male sparring. Ensure dense planting to overcome their natural shyness.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Unsexed, Schooling
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) Care Guide Summary
The Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora), scientifically known as Danio margaritatus, belongs to the Cyprinids family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 2.5 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 38 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 20°C and 26°C, with a pH range of 6.5–7.5 and a general hardness of 5–15 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
The Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. The Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) is typically available in one standard form.
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora), a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress.
Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) Compatibility Notes
Classified as peaceful, the Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) is a schooling species that feels most secure in a sizeable group, where natural shoaling behaviour reduces stress and brings out their best colours. When choosing tankmates, boisterous or fast-moving tankmates may cause this species undue stress. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora)
How big does Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) get?+
What tank size does Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) need?+
What water parameters does Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) need?+
Is Celestial Pearl Danio (Galaxy Rasbora) peaceful or aggressive?+
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Similar Species
Chili Rasbora
Boraras brigittae
A striking, deeply red nano fish native to the blackwater streams and peat swamps of southern Borneo. They are extremely peaceful and require a mature, densely planted aquarium with soft, acidic water. Due to their tiny size, they are completely safe with adult dwarf shrimp and are ideal for nano setups.
Zebra Danio
Danio rerio
One of the most robust and active aquarium fish available. Native to South Asia, they are a model organism in science due to their genetics. They are extremely active top-level swimmers that must be kept in schools to prevent stress and fin-nipping. They prefer cooler, oxygen-rich water with a current.
Giant Danio
Devario aequipinnatus
The Giant Danio is a robust, incredibly active schooling fish native to fast-flowing streams in South Asia. Known for their striking blue and gold horizontal stripes, they are constantly in motion and require long tanks with strong water flow. Due to their boisterous nature, they make excellent 'dither fish' for mild-mannered cichlids but should not be kept with slow, shy, or long-finned species as they will easily outcompete them for food.
Dwarf Neon Rainbowfish (Praecox)
Melanotaenia praecox
A brilliant, active schooling fish native to the Mamberamo River basin in West Papua. Known for their iridescent neon-blue bodies, they are an energetic and peaceful addition to community tanks. Because of their high activity levels, they require ample open swimming space alongside planted areas. They are fast eaters and may outcompete shy tank mates for food.
Harlequin Rasbora
Trigonostigma heteromorpha
A highly popular, peaceful schooling fish recognizable by its metallic copper/orange body and the distinct black triangular 'porkchop' patch on its hindquarters. Originating from peat swamps and blackwater streams in Southeast Asia, they are active swimmers that thrive in heavily planted aquariums with gentle to moderate water flow.
Threadfin Rainbowfish
Iriatherina werneri
A delicate and exquisitely shaped nano rainbowfish native to New Guinea and Northern Australia. They are famous for the males' long, filamentous fins and butterfly-like display behavior. Due to their incredibly small throats, they require micro-foods. They are shoaling fish that are easily intimidated by boisterous tank mates.