Galaxy Rasbora

Species Profile: Galaxy Rasbora

• Scientific Name: Danio margaritatus
• Common Name: Galaxy Rasbora / Celestial Pearl Danio
• Adult Size: 0.75–1 inch (2–2.5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 3–5 years
• Habitat: Native to small, heavily vegetated, spring-fed ponds in Myanmar (Burma), particularly around Hopong near Inle Lake

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Ideal Temperature: 22°C – 26°C (72°F – 79°F)
• pH Range: 6.5 – 7.5
• Water Hardness: 2 – 10 dGH
• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, best kept in groups of 6 or more. Does well in community tanks with other small, gentle species.

Diet & Nutrition

• Diet: Omnivorous
• Preferred Foods: Micropellets, crushed flake food, live or frozen microfoods like daphnia, brine shrimp, cyclops
• Feeding Tips: Due to their tiny size, offer small, high-quality food particles. Feed once or twice daily.

Breeding & Spawning

• Breeding Difficulty: Moderate
• Spawning Type: Egg-scatterer
• Breeding Conditions: Soft, slightly acidic water (~pH 6.8), with moss or fine-leaved plants to catch eggs
• Spawning Behavior: Males display vibrant colors to court females. Eggs are scattered, and fry may hatch in 2–3 days. Remove adults post-spawning to prevent egg predation.

Appearance

• Coloration: Deep blue body with iridescent white or gold “pearl-like” spots, red-orange fins with dark striping

• Size & Shape: Small and torpedo-shaped, with vivid contrast between body and fins

Distinctive Features

• Beautiful spotted pattern reminiscent of a galaxy
• Males are more vividly colored and display more often
• Peaceful and well-suited to nano planted tanks
• Sensitive to stress and poor water quality — regular maintenance is essential