Care
The Lake Inle danio is found in the lake from which it gets its name, as well as the streams and rivers that flow into it. Typically all habitats are characterised by rich growth of aquatic plants and the danios swim in open water adjacent to this luxuriant cover.
DNA work shows that this species is closely related to the giant danios (Devario) are shares a peaceful nature, although they tend to be rather boisterous at feeding times; slow, shy, and long-finned tankmates may be intimidated. As a shoaling species, these fish should be maintained in groups of 6 or more (10+ is better if space allows). The tank should be spacious with generous planting that mirrors their ancestral habitat. Regular partial water changes on the aquarium are absolutely essential as they can be sensitive to the build-up of organic wastes. Good companions could include many of the subtropical species of barbs and danios, or other peaceful fishes that appreciate cooler conditions and water on the alkaline side of neutral. Be sure that the tank has tight fitting coverslides with no gaps where equipment feeds into the aquarium, as these fish are accomplished jumpers.
As mentioned above, scientific work placed this fish very close to the Devario danios and some sources place it in the same genus. It may also be seen as the Lake Inle minnow.
Feeding
Offer a variety of small meaty foods such as frozen bloodworm, white mosquito larvae, daphnia, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp etc. plus a good quality flake.
Breeding
An egg scattering species that can be spawned in a good sized breeding aquarium with a substrate of marbles and large clumps of Java moss. The parents should be acclimatised back to the main aquarium after spawning has ceased, in order to prevent them predating on the eggs. Although largely temperature dependent, the eggs should hatch within 24-36 hours and the fry will be free-swimming a few days later.
