Yoma Danio

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Native to western Myanmar, inhabiting fast-flowing, oxygen-rich mountain streams flowing down from coastal hills. The waters are clear, cool, and run over rocky and gravelly beds.

Taxonomy and Morphology: A member of the Cyprinidae family. It is a relatively large danio species, reaching a size of up to 8.0 cm. Features a highly streamlined, slender body adapted for rapid swimming.

Social Behavior: Highly active, fast, and gregarious. It shoals near the upper levels of the water column. Keep in groups of at least 6-8 to establish proper social dynamics and dissipate minor chasing.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Displays a colorful body with golden stripes and iridescent blue markings along the sides. Mature males are notably slimmer and more intensely colored than females.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a long aquarium of at least 120 liters. A strong water current produced by powerheads or spray bars is highly recommended. The tank must be tightly covered.

Diet and Feeding: Voracious omnivore. Accepts high-quality flakes and pellets, but should be offered frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms to fuel their active metabolism.

Water Quality: Prefers cool, well-oxygenated water. Keep temperature at 18-24°C, pH 6.5-7.5, and GH 5-15 dGH. Weekly water changes are necessary to keep parameter stability.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Best kept with active species that share similar habitat preferences, such as hillstream loaches, barbs, and other danios. Avoid slow-swimming or delicate tankmates.

Aquarium Breeding: Egg scatterer. Eggs fall to the bottom. Use a mesh grid or a bed of glass marbles to protect eggs from being eaten. Remove parents after spawning.

Risks and Diseases: Extreme jump risk; a secure, gaps-free lid is mandatory. High oxygen demand makes them vulnerable to gasping if water circulation drops.