Devario Regina

Datasheet

General Description

Devario Regina, also known as Queen Danio, is a species belonging to the Cyprinidae family. It has a deep-bodied structure with a distinct blue-and-yellow color pattern. Typically, it is often referred to as part of a group of similar-looking species, including D. aequipinnatus, D. anomalus, D. assamensis, D. devario, and D. malabaricus. The taxonomy and classification of Danio species have undergone revisions in recent years, leading to a clearer understanding of their genetic lineages and relationships within the genus.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Devario Regina, it is essential to mimic its natural habitat of flowing streams or rivers. The tank should have a substrate of rocks, sand, and gravel, possibly incorporating driftwood and hardy aquatic plants like Microsorum or Anubias. The species thrives in clean water conditions with good oxygenation and moderate water movement. Regular water changes of 30-50% volume are crucial, and a secure cover is necessary due to the fish's jumping behavior (see table for specific water conditions).

Behaviour

Queen Danios are not aggressive but their energetic feeding behavior and constant activity may intimidate slower or more timid tankmates. They are best suited to larger aquariums with robust, similarly-sized fish. Being schooling fish, they should ideally be kept in groups of at least 8-10 individuals to reduce stress and enhance their natural schooling behavior. In a group setting, any aggression is usually limited to maintaining hierarchical positions within the school, with males displaying more vibrant colors in the presence of rivals.

Feeding and Diet

In their natural habitat, Devario Regina primarily feeds on insects and their larvae. In captivity, they are generally unfussy eaters and can be fed a staple diet of high-quality dried food supplemented with live or frozen options like bloodworms, Daphnia, or Artemia. A varied diet contributes to better coloration and overall conditioning of the fish.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Like most small cyprinids, Queen Danios are egg-scattering free spawners without parental care. To maximize breeding success, a controlled breeding tank with suitable conditions is recommended. Female Queen Danios are typically rounder-bellied and less colorful compared to males. Spawning usually occurs within 24 hours after conditioning, with the female appearing slimmer afterward. Fry hatch within 24-36 hours and should be fed appropriately once they become free-swimming.

Habitat and Distribution

Devario Regina is primarily found in western and southern Thailand, northern Peninsular Malaysia, and some surrounding islands. The species inhabits submontane hill streams and upper parts of small rivers with clear, well-oxygenated water. Its native habitat experiences variable water parameters due to tropical monsoon climate. Although occasionally reported in other regions, Queen Danios are predominantly limited to specific areas in Thailand and Malaysia.