Zebra Danio
Danio rerio compatibility profile. Find the best tank mates by checking water parameters, aquarium swim zone pressure, social rules, and shrimp-safe verifications.
Core facts & bioload limits
Adult size2"
Minimum tank10 gal
Temperamentpeaceful
Group6+
- temperature64-76F
- pH6.5-7.8
- water_hardnessGH 5-19 dGH | KH 2-10 dKH
- plant_safetysafe
- shrimp_safetycaution
- algae_eating_rolenone
- beginner_suitabilitybeginner
Community planning & swim zone pressure
When planning a community around Zebra Danio, consider the aquarium swim zone pressure. This species primarily occupies the topmiddle zone. Balance the setup by choosing tank mates that occupy the top or bottom zones to reduce crowding and stress.
Care caveats
- notesVery active schooling fish; small body size hides a real demand for swimming length and group activity.
- caveatDespite the small adult size, zebra danios need swimming room and a sustained group — short, cramped tanks stress them.
- caveatKeep a group of 6 or more so activity is dispersed across the school rather than aimed at slower tankmates.
- caveatWill chase and stress slow, long-finned, or shy species (bettas, gouramis, fancy guppies) — choose calm community plans only when there is plenty of length and dither cover.
- caveatCool-water tolerant; if mixing with tropicals, stay in the overlap range and avoid pairing with species that need consistently warm conditions.
Compatible tank mates
- Bladder Snailyellowschooling_size_issue | minimum 10 galCheck this pair in the planner ->
- Bettayellowtemperature_mismatch | minimum 10 galCheck this pair in the planner ->
- Chili Rasborayellowschooling_size_issue | minimum 10 galCheck this pair in the planner ->
- Ember Tetrayellowschooling_size_issue | minimum 10 galCheck this pair in the planner ->
- Cherry Shrimpyellowshrimp_predation_risk | minimum 10 galCheck this pair in the planner ->
- Ghost Shrimpyellowshrimp_predation_risk | minimum 10 galCheck this pair in the planner ->
- Crystal Red Shrimpyellowwater_hardness_mismatch | minimum 10 galCheck this pair in the planner ->
- Blue Dream Shrimpyellowshrimp_predation_risk | minimum 10 galCheck this pair in the planner ->
- Orange Sakura Shrimpyellowshrimp_predation_risk | minimum 10 galCheck this pair in the planner ->
- Black Rose Shrimpyellowshrimp_predation_risk | minimum 10 galCheck this pair in the planner ->