Question: Danio rerio & water flow rate

**vincxlim** · 29th Jun 2011, 14:59

Hi,

Can anyone shed some light on if Danios "prefers" a tank with a fast flowing water or more calm waters in a tank. I've been searching around but information seems to be conflicting, with some saying that fast flowing water is preferred as Danios are mainly found in streams, and some saying that they prefer calmer shaded water.

Yes, I am aware that most Danios we get are tank bred, I'm just very curious to know.rerio2.jpg

**stormhawk** · 29th Jun 2011, 15:39

They like moderately fast flowing water, just not a torrent like that recommended for hill stream loaches. They will chase for food in the water column and spawn at times, but they also appreciate shaded water. The use of floating plants with a small power head should be sufficient for their needs.

**vincxlim** · 29th Jun 2011, 15:53

thanks stormhawk

**stormhawk** · 29th Jun 2011, 16:02

You're welcome. Just watch out for jumping zebras. When they're spooked they can and will attempt to jump out of the tank. A netting spread over the tank might be useful.

**vincxlim** · 29th Jun 2011, 16:11

I've got a covered tank . . now have to figure out what is "moderately fast flowing water" in real life . .hahaha

**stormhawk** · 29th Jun 2011, 16:22

Some form of current is all you need actually, they appreciate the fast flow at times because they will attempt to swim against it. A use of a small powerhead with an adjustable flow will be sufficient. You can increase or decrease output flow until you see your fish feeling comfortable. I just use a rainbar across the water surface. When I last had Chopra's Danios, they loved the water current at the surface of the water.

**vincxlim** · 29th Jun 2011, 17:13

I've got an airs tone going, but I've got one of those all-in-one tank with the filter built into the tank and the powerhead flow rate is non-adjustable. Guess I'll have to find it out, thanks.

**stormhawk** · 29th Jun 2011, 18:07

Ah, those pico/nano tanks like the Dymax IQ3? If yes, just set the output upwards to face the water's surface. That flow rate is sufficient for them, along with the air stone you already have in place.