Danio Leopard | Brachydanio frankei

The Leopard Danio is a very striking and easily recognizable Zebra Danio Danio rerio breed. These handsome little fish reach only about 2 1/4 inches (6 cm) in length and are spotted rather than naked. This ‘leopard with spots’ has an overall brownish gold metallic color with lots of bluish-grey spots. A variety has also been developed with long flowing fins called the Longfin Leopard Danio. In both forms, this fish is eye-catching and is just as active and vigorous as its ancestors, making it a great fish for any fish-keeper.

One of the most popular and commonly available danio, the Leopard Danio has long been a staple in the freshwater hobby, but has an unusual background. This fish was first described as Brachydanio frankei by Meinken in 1963. The name was later changed to Danio frankei, but the exact origin of this fish is unknown. Some claim that it originated in India or Thailand, but no type of locality has ever been known. Others say that the Leopard Danio is a mutant strain developed in Czechoslovakia from the Zebra Danio while still others speculate that it is a mutant strain of the Dwarf Danio or Spotted Danio Danio nigrofasciatus. In the end, fertile offspring from crossing B. rerio with B.”

These attractive little fish are hardy and prolific breeders, so they are a great choice for the novice aquarist. They do well in most community tanks and are a great addition to any danio collection. Their behavior is fairly typical for danios–quite friendly, but active and fast-paced. This school of fish should be kept in groups of at least 3, ideally 10. A school of danio can fit with most community fish as long as the danio will not be eaten and the other fish are not startled by rapid movement.

This group of lively little fish is perfect for smaller aquariums. A 10 gallon tank is the smallest needed to hold a school, but 20 gallons is optimal. Their aquarium needs, care and feeding are the same as their parents’. Like all Zebra Danio varieties, they can withstand an impressive range of temperatures and water conditions and will generally do well without a water heater. They can be comfortable in temperatures up to the sixties (F), but while they are not fussy about water conditions, it is best not to take your aquarium to extremes.

To create an interesting effect in your aquarium, try mixed school by combining the beautiful Leopard Danio with some common Zebra fish. A mix like this will provide a nice contrast of fast-moving, streaking colors. Mixing more varieties like the Golden Zebra Danio, Albino Zebra Danio, and Longfin Blue Danio works equally well and creates a very interesting effect. Don’t be surprised if schools spend a lot of time in the flow of water from filters or pumps as this is reminiscent of the fast-moving water found in their natural environment.

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