How long do Zebra Danios live?
Zebra Danios live about 3-5 years with reasonable care. Their toughness means beginners often keep them successfully for the full span.
What do Zebra Danios eat?
They are unfussy omnivores: flake, micro-pellets, and frozen/live foods like daphnia and brine shrimp. Overfeeding is the main diet error; feed what is finished in two minutes.
Tank size and water parameters
A 10-15 gallon (38-57 L) tank suits a school of 6-8. Target 64-77°F (18-25°C), pH 6.5-7.5, moderate hardness, zero ammonia and nitrite, nitrate under 30 ppm. Keep in groups of 6+; a secure lid is essential as they jump.
Common mistakes with Zebra Danios
Common errors: too small a group (they get nippy and stressed alone); an open or poorly fitting lid (they are champion jumpers); and long-finned tank mates they may nip; also never use them as 'feeder fish' if you actually want pets.
Beginner mistakes to avoid
- Keeping a tiny group — zebras need 6+ to stay calm and social.
- An open lid — they jump out of uncovered tanks.
- Housing with long-finned fish they may nip.
- Overfeeding — even tough fish suffer from fouled water.