Pearl Danio (Danio albolineatus) — > 4cm

Overview

The Pearl Danio (Danio albolineatus) is a shimmering, active shoaling danio with a peaceful nature and easy care requirements, ideal for lively community aquariums. Native to Southeast Asia (Myanmar, Thailand, Sumatra, and Vietnam), this species reaches 5.5 cm in length and is prized for its iridescent pearl-like sheen and constant movement. The body displays a pale pinkish to bluish base overlaid with a distinctive horizontal blue-violet stripe and iridescent scales that shimmer under aquarium lighting. Unlike some delicate species, Pearl Danios are hardy, adaptable, and well-suited to beginners and experienced aquarists alike. Available for sale UK from specialist suppliers, this species brings energy, elegance, and visual interest to any planted aquarium.

Appearance and Physical Characteristics

Danio albolineatus exhibits a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with a deeply forked caudal fin. The body displays a pale pinkish-silver to bluish-silver base overlaid with a distinctive horizontal blue to blue-violet stripe running from the operculum to the base of the tail. The scales have a beautiful iridescent sheen that creates a pearl-like shimmer under aquarium lighting, giving the species its common name. The fins are generally clear to faintly tinted, with slight yellow or orange highlights in well-conditioned fish. Males are typically more slender and more intensely colored than females, while females are fuller-bodied, especially when gravid. Both sexes have large eyes and a slightly upturned mouth. The shimmering effect is most pronounced under good lighting and in well-fed, unstressed fish.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

Danio albolineatus is native to Southeast Asia, including Myanmar, Thailand, Sumatra (Indonesia), and Phu Quoc Island (Vietnam). They inhabit slow to moderate-flowing streams, rivers, and floodplain pools, often in areas with submerged vegetation, roots, and overhanging grasses. The substrate is typically sandy or muddy, and water chemistry ranges from soft to moderately hard with slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). Temperatures are moderate to warm (20-26°C). These fish are surface-oriented and typically found in loose shoals near the surface, foraging for insects, insect larvae, and small invertebrates.

Aquarium Setup and Environment

A minimum aquarium capacity of 75 liters is recommended for a school of 8-10 Pearl Danios. Provide open swimming space with some planted areas. A dark substrate enhances their iridescent sheen. Include driftwood and smooth rocks. Filtration should be good, with moderate to strong surface agitation to maintain high oxygen levels. A secure lid is essential, as danios are active jumpers.

Water Parameters and Quality

Pearl Danios thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water. Maintain temperatures between 20-26°C, with 22-24°C optimal. The pH should range from 6.0-7.5. Water hardness can vary from soft to moderately hard. Maintain zero ammonia and nitrite, and keep nitrates below 30 ppm through regular water changes.

Feeding and Nutrition

Danio albolineatus is an omnivore. Offer varied diet of high-quality flake or micro-pellet foods supplemented with frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms, plus occasional vegetable matter. Feed twice daily in small portions. Provide variety for vibrant coloration.

Behaviour and Temperament

The Pearl Danio is a peaceful, highly active species that spends most of its time in the upper levels of the aquarium. They are genuinely peaceful and rarely bother tankmates. Best kept in shoals of 8-10+ individuals. They are diurnal and most active during daylight hours, constantly on the move. Their shimmering appearance and active swimming make them engaging.

Tank Mates and Compatibility

Suitable tank mates include other peaceful small danios, rasboras, tetras, Corydoras, and small loaches. Avoid large predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species, very slow long-finned fish such as bettas and fancy guppies, and any tankmate large enough to eat them.

Breeding

Danio albolineatus is an egg-scatterer that will spawn among fine plants or spawning mops. Adults should be removed after spawning because they may eat eggs and fry. Provide soft, clean water and small live foods for fry. Eggs hatch in 24-36 hours. Fry require infusoria initially, then newly hatched brine shrimp.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is the UK's trusted source for healthy Pearl Danios. Every fish is quarantined, conditioned, and health-checked. We offer a live arrival guarantee, secure packaging, and next-day delivery. Order today and enjoy this shimmering Southeast Asian species.