Celestial Pearl Danio
Danio margaritatus
Minimum Tank
10 Gallons
Adult Size
1 inches
Temperature
72-78°F (22-26°C)
pH Range
6.5-7.5
Lifespan
5 years
School Size
8+ fish
About Celestial Pearl Danio
The celestial pearl danio, also known as the galaxy rasbora, is a breathtakingly beautiful nano fish discovered in 2006 in small, spring-fed pools near Hopong, Myanmar. Its deep blue-black body is scattered with pearl-like golden spots resembling a starry sky, while the fins display bold red and black striping. The species caused a sensation when first introduced to the hobby, with many initially doubting its natural coloring was real. Males are more intensely colored and slimmer than the rounder, paler females. Despite concerns about overcollection after their discovery, captive breeding programs were quickly established. These tiny jewels are now a staple of the nano fish hobby and planted aquarium scene.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 10-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- • pH: 6.5 - 7.5
- • Category: Rasbora
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Keep celestial pearl danios in groups of at least eight in a tank of 10 gallons or more with dense planting and plenty of hiding spots. Males can be territorial and chase each other, so provide visual barriers with plants and hardscape. They prefer cool to moderate temperatures at 68-76°F and slightly hard, neutral to slightly alkaline water. Feed a mix of quality micro-pellets, crushed flakes, and frozen baby brine shrimp and daphnia. They can be shy initially but become more confident in well-planted tanks with gentle tankmates. Breeding is relatively easy, with fish scattering eggs among fine-leaved plants and moss. They are popular companions for shrimp in planted nano setups.
Quick Facts
38L
Min Tank (10gal)
3cm
Adult Size (1")
5yr
Lifespan
8+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Celestial Pearl Danio
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Boraras brigittae
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Harlequin Rasbora
Trigonostigma heteromorpha
Emerald Eye Rasbora
Brevibora dorsiocellata
Lambchop Rasbora
Trigonostigma espei
Scissortail Rasbora
Rasbora trilineata
Tank Mates for Celestial Pearl Danio
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
moderate · 15+ gal
Otocinclus
Otocinclus sp.
moderate · 10+ gal
Celebes Rainbowfish
Marosatherina ladigesi
moderate · 20+ gal
Amano Shrimp
Caridina multidentata
easy · 10+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Celestial Pearl Danio need?
A Celestial Pearl Danio needs a minimum tank size of 10 gallons (38 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 8.
What water parameters does a Celestial Pearl Danio need?
Celestial Pearl Danio thrive in water between 72-78°F (22-26°C) with a pH of 6.5-7.5.
Are Celestial Pearl Danio easy to care for?
Celestial Pearl Danio are considered moderate to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do Celestial Pearl Danio get and what do they eat?
Celestial Pearl Danio reach about 1 inch and are omnivores. Keep celestial pearl danios in groups of at least eight in a tank of 10 gallons or more with dense planting and plenty of hiding spots. Males can be territorial and chase each other, so provide visual barriers with plants and hardscape. They prefer cool to moderate temperatures at 68-76°F and slightly hard, neutral to slightly alkaline water. Feed a mix of quality micro-pellets, crushed flakes, and frozen baby brine shrimp and daphnia. They can be shy initially but become more confident in well-planted tanks with gentle tankmates. Breeding is relatively easy, with fish scattering eggs among fine-leaved plants and moss. They are popular companions for shrimp in planted nano setups.