Celestichthys Choprae

Datasheet

General Description

Celestichthys Choprae, commonly known as Glowlight 'Danio', is a peaceful and popular small fish in the aquarium hobby. It has a characteristic color pattern of vertical bars on the flanks, red stripes, and distinct markings on its fins. The species is a schooling fish by nature and thrives when kept in groups of 8-10 specimens to establish a pecking order.

Aquarium Setup

To create an ideal environment for Glowlight 'Danios', it is recommended to maintain them in a well-planted tank resembling a flowing river or stream. The aquarium should have a dark substrate, variably-sized rocks, gravel, and some large water-worn boulders. Providing additional powerhead(s) for gentle water flow and driftwood roots can enhance their habitat. Hardy aquatic plants like Microsorum, Bolbitis, or Anubias are suitable additions. Due to their jumping ability, a tightly-fitted cover is essential for the tank.

Behaviour

Glowlight 'Danios' are peaceful and can coexist with various fish species in community tanks. They are schooling fish that exhibit a hierarchical social structure, with alpha males displaying occasional aggression towards subordinates. Maintaining them in larger numbers reduces aggression and nervousness. Although fin nipping may occur within the group, it is typically not directed towards tankmates.

Feeding and Diet

In their natural habitat, Glowlight 'Danios' primarily feed on insects and larvae. In aquariums, they are unfussy eaters and readily accept a variety of foods. A balanced diet includes high-quality dry pellets supplemented with live or frozen fare like bloodworms, Daphnia, and Artemia. This diverse diet enhances their coloration and overall health.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Like many small cyprinids, Glowlight 'Danios' are egg-scattering spawners that exhibit no parental care. Females are typically rounder and less colorful compared to the more vibrant males, especially evident during spawning. To increase fry yield, a controlled breeding approach in separate containers with dim lighting and suitable substrate is recommended. Incubation of eggs takes around 72 hours, with the fry becoming free-swimming shortly after.

Habitat and Distribution

These fish prefer small hill streams with gravel and rocky substrates. Originating from the Mogaung Chaung river system in Myanmar, Glowlight 'Danios' are endemic to this region. Due to commercial breeding, wild-caught specimens are less common in the aquarium trade. Myanmar serves as a center of diversity for the genus, hosting over ten Danio species, many of which are unique to the country.