The Celestial Pearl Danio (Danio margaritatus) is a tiny, peaceful freshwater fish that brings color and calm energy to any nano tank. Known for their shimmering blue bodies and orange fins, they are perfect for planted aquariums. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know—from tank setup and feeding to breeding and health tips.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Scientific Name | Danio margaritatus |
| Size | 0.75–1 inch |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Temperament | Peaceful, shy |
| Tank Level | Mid to bottom |
| Min. Tank Size | 10 gallons |
| Temperature | 72–78°F |
| pH Range | 6.5–7.5 |
| Water Hardness | Soft to moderately hard |
What Makes Celestial Pearl Danios Special?
These tiny fish come from small freshwater ponds in Myanmar. Their bright colors and calm behavior make them a favorite in community tanks. They’re often called “Galaxy Rasboras” and thrive when kept in small groups.
Related: Best freshwater aquarium fish
Ideal Tank Setup
Tank Size: A 10-gallon tank is the bare minimum for a group of 6. They feel more secure in a school and show better colors when comfortable.
Filtration & Equipment: A sponge filter or gentle hang-on-back filter is best. Avoid strong currents, as they prefer still or slow-moving water.
Plants & Decor: Use live plants like Java moss, Anubias, and floating plants for cover. Driftwood and caves help reduce stress.
Explore: Aquarium plants guide
Water Parameters
Keep conditions stable and clean. Use a reliable heater and test the water weekly.
- Temperature: 72–78°F
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderate
- Nitrate: Below 20 ppm
- Water change: 25% weekly
Learn: Freshwater aquarium setup
Feeding Celestial Pearl Danios
They are micropredators and enjoy hunting small food particles.
Best foods include:
- Baby brine shrimp
- Daphnia
- Microworms
- Crushed flakes (occasionally)
Feed 2–3 times a day in small amounts. Drop food close to them so they get their share.
Peaceful Tank Mates
They do well with other peaceful nano fish and shrimp.
Great companions:
- Ember Tetras
- Pygmy Corydoras
- Otocinclus
- Cherry Shrimp (adults)
Avoid fin-nippers or fast eaters like guppies or barbs.
Behavior
Celestial Pearl Danios are calm but shy. Keep them in groups of 6 or more. Males sometimes show off but rarely get aggressive. You’ll see them swimming in the middle or hiding among plants.
Breeding Tips
Breeding is possible at home with the right setup.
Breeding tank:
- 10 gallons with moss or spawning mop
- Slightly acidic water (pH ~6.8)
- Temp: 75–78°F
Feed the pair live food to condition them. After spawning, remove the adults. Eggs hatch in 2–3 days. Start fry on infusoria, then baby brine shrimp.
Common Health Issues
Healthy when cared for properly, but small size makes them sensitive.
Watch for:
- Ich
- Fin rot
- Stress-related color loss
Keep water stable, feed a proper diet, and avoid aggressive tank mates.
Learn: Freshwater fish diseases
FAQs
Are they beginner-friendly?
Yes, with clean water and quality food.
Do they eat flakes?
Sometimes, but live/frozen is preferred.
Can they live with shrimp?
Yes, but may eat shrimplets.
How long do they live?
About 3–5 years.
Do they school?
Yes, keep them in groups of 6+.
Final Thoughts
Celestial Pearl Danios are a gem in small aquariums. With their peaceful nature and stunning look, they bring charm to any planted setup. Just give them stable water, good food, and peaceful tank mates—and they’ll do great.
 **2. Platy** Platies are hardy and easygoing. They enjoy swimming in groups and come in a variety of bright colors. Great for peaceful community tanks. ➡️ [Platy Fish Guide →](#) **3. Zebra Danio** Known for their energy and toughness, zebra danios are perfect for cycling new tanks. They tolerate a wide range of conditions and like to dart around in groups. ➡️ [Zebra Danio Guide →](#) **4. Corydoras Catfish** Peaceful bottom-dwellers that help keep your tank clean. Keep them in groups of 3 or more and give them soft substrate. ➡️ [Cory Catfish Care →](#) **5. Molly** Adaptable to various water conditions (even brackish), mollies are lively and great for community aquariums. ➡️ [Molly Fish Care Guide →](#) **6. Swordtail** Easy to care for and great in peaceful groups. Males have a signature sword-like tail and love swimming space. ➡️ [Swordtail Fish Guide →](#) **7. Betta Fish** Low-maintenance and visually stunning. Best kept alone or with very peaceful tank mates like snails or Corydoras. ➡️ [Full Betta Fish Care Guide →](#) **8. Neon Tetra** Small and peaceful, neon tetras love to school and light up a planted tank. Keep them in groups of 6 or more. ➡️ [Neon Tetra Care Guide →](https://oceanbitez.com/neon-tetras/) **9. Harlequin Rasbora** A calm and schooling species that fits right into community setups. Easy to feed and care for. ➡️ [Harlequin Rasbora Guide →](#) **10. Dwarf Gourami** A gentle and colorful addition to a beginner’s tank. Likes planted environments and peaceful neighbors. ➡️ [Dwarf Gourami Guide →](#) **11. White Cloud Mountain Minnow** Can live in cooler temperatures and is perfect for unheated tanks. Small, peaceful, and easy to care for. ➡️ [White Cloud Minnow Guide →](#) **12. Cherry Barb** Peaceful and social, cherry barbs do well in planted tanks and enjoy being in small groups. ➡️ [Cherry Barb Care →](#) --- ### Sample Beginner Tank Combos **Combo 1: 10–15 Gallon Easy Starter** * 4–6 Guppies * 3 Corydoras Catfish * 1 Nerite Snail **Combo 2: 20 Gallon Planted Community** * 6 Harlequin Rasboras * 6 Neon Tetras * 1 Dwarf Gourami * 3 Otocinclus (optional if algae control is needed) --- ### Beginner Tips for a Successful Aquarium * Cycle your tank before adding fish (ammonia → nitrite → nitrate) * Start with hardy species before delicate ones * Feed small amounts once or twice daily * Do weekly partial water changes (20–30%) * Don’t mix aggressive or fin-nipping species * Use a heater for tropical fish (75–80°F) --- ### Final Thoughts These beginner fish are ideal for getting started in the hobby without frustration. They're low-maintenance, compatible, and fun to watch. Once you’re comfortable, you can explore more advanced species and community combinations. ➡️ Check out our full guide to [Freshwater Aquarium Fish →](https://oceanbitez.com/freshwater-fish/)](https://oceanbitez.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Best-Freshwater-Fish-for-Your-Aquarium-1024x640.webp)
