Bengal Danio

About the Bengal Danio

The Bengal Danio is a fast-swimming and eye-catching freshwater fish, recognised for its shimmering silver body adorned with vibrant blue horizontal stripes. Native to the rivers and streams of India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan, this hardy species is an excellent choice for larger community aquariums where its active schooling behaviour adds constant movement and energy.

Bengal Danios thrive in well-planted aquariums with plenty of open swimming space and moderate water flow. Their peaceful temperament makes them ideal companions for rainbowfish, barbs, larger tetras, Corydoras, loaches, gouramis, and other active community fish. As a schooling species, they should always be kept in groups of at least six, with larger schools displaying more natural behaviour and confidence.

Easy to care for and highly adaptable, Bengal Danios are suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. A varied diet of premium flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods, and occasional live foods will help maintain their brilliant colours and overall health.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Devario devario

Common Name

Bengal Danio

Origin

India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan

Adult Size

8–10 cm

Temperament

Peaceful and active

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

120 Litres

Temperature

20–26°C

pH

6.5–7.8

Water Hardness

5–20 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner

Lifespan

5–7 Years

Suitable For

Large community aquariums and planted tanks

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Bengal Danios suitable for beginners?

Yes. They are hardy, adaptable, and easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for beginner aquarists.

How many Bengal Danios should I keep?

Keep them in schools of at least six, although groups of eight or more will display more natural schooling behaviour and reduce stress.

What do Bengal Danios eat?

They readily accept quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp, and small live foods.

Can Bengal Danios live with shrimp?

Adult shrimp such as Amano Shrimp may coexist, but small shrimp and shrimplets are likely to become food.

Do Bengal Danios need water flow?

Yes. They naturally inhabit flowing rivers and streams, so moderate water movement and good oxygenation are beneficial.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them in small groups

Bengal Danios are schooling fish and should always be kept with others of their own species.

Housing them in small aquariums

Their active swimming behaviour requires plenty of open space.

Mixing with slow-moving fish

Avoid housing them with delicate or very slow species that may become stressed by their activity.

Poor water quality

Stable water conditions and regular maintenance are essential for long-term health.

Feeding an unvaried diet

Providing a varied diet helps maintain vibrant colours, healthy growth, and a strong immune system.