Malabar Danio
Devario malabaricus
Malabar Danio is a peaceful bottom-to-middle swimmer.
Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.
Quick facts
- Adult size
- ≤ 10 cm (≤ 3.9 in)
- Aquarium size
- 243 L or larger / ≥ 120 cm (≥ 47.2 in) minimum length
- Care level
- Beginner – Intermediate
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swimming zone
- Bottom to middle swimmer
- Temperature
- 17–25 °C
- pH
- 6–8
- GH
- 5–15 dGH
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Lifespan
- up to 5 years
Care requirements
Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.
Lifespan: up to 5 years.
Aquarium size and space needs
Minimum aquarium size: 243 L or larger / ≥ 120 cm (≥ 47.2 in) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.
Water parameters
Suitable water: temperature 17–25 °C, pH 6–8, GH 5–15 dGH.
Temperament and compatibility
Malabar Danio is peaceful and suits calm community fish.
Swimming zone and behavior
This fish uses the lower to middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding.
Feeding
As an omnivore, Malabar Danio should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.
Make sure food reaches the substrate before faster fish take it.
Natural habitat and origin
Origin: Sri Lanka, India.
Before adding this fish
- Plan for an aquarium of 243 L or larger / ≥ 120 cm (≥ 47.2 in) minimum length.
- Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
- Offer a varied diet suitable for an omnivorous bottom-dwelling fish.
Similar fish profiles
Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.
FAQ
How large does Malabar Danio get?
Malabar Danio reaches ≤ 10 cm (≤ 3.9 in).
What aquarium size does Malabar Danio need?
Use an aquarium of at least 243 L or larger / ≥ 120 cm (≥ 47.2 in) minimum length.
Is Malabar Danio peaceful?
Yes. Malabar Danio is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.
What temperature is suitable for Malabar Danio?
Keep it between 17 to 25 °C.