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Zebrafish

The zebrafish is a small freshwater fish known for its distinctive horizontal stripes. This species is popular in the aquarium because of its calm nature and strong adaptability. The zebrafish is a schooling fish that feels most comfortable in a group and is therefore suitable for a community aquarium.

zebrafish

Characteristics

Country of origin: India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal and Pakistan
Body build: Slender body with a slightly upward-facing mouth and small barbels.
Colours and coat types: Blue iridescent and black horizontal stripes on a silvery to golden base
Life Expectancy: 3 - 6 years

Characteristics

Suitable for beginners
Can be kept with other fish
Activity
Care requirements
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Popular product for the zebrafish

Aquarium and living environment

The zebrafish naturally lives in rivers, rice fields and slow-moving or still water. In a zebrafish aquarium, it is important to create both open swimming space and planted areas. An aquarium of at least 80 litres is suitable for a group of around 10 fish. The zebrafish mainly swims in the upper water layers and likes a light current, although it can also adapt to calmer water. The species has few demands when it comes to water values and tolerates a pH between 6 and 8 and temperatures of around 18 to 26 °C. The aquarium must be properly covered, as zebrafish can jump.

Feeding

The zebrafish mainly eats food that remains at the water surface. In the aquarium, you can feed it flakes and freeze-dried food. In the wild, the zebrafish eats small animals such as mosquito larvae, larvae and small crustaceans. Live food is appreciated, but not necessary. Because food that sinks to the bottom is often not eaten, it is important to take this into account during feeding.

Keeping with other fish

The zebrafish is a peaceful species without territorial behaviour. It can live well with other calm fish in a community aquarium. It is important to keep zebrafish in a group. In a school, they feel calmer and show natural behaviour. Because of their small size, they are best not combined with larger or aggressive fish, as they may otherwise be seen as prey.

Care

The zebrafish is a strong and undemanding fish that is suitable for beginner aquarium keepers. Because of its adaptability, it can be kept in different conditions. Stress can affect health. It is therefore important to keep the fish in a group and combine them with suitable, calm species. With good care and stable conditions, the zebrafish can remain healthy for several years.

Reproduction, embryo and difference between male and female

The difference between male and female is visible in body shape and colour. Males are slimmer and often have a golden tint, while females are rounder. The zebrafish is easy to breed in the aquarium. The female can lay up to 400 eggs. Zebrafish embryos develop quickly and hatch within a few days. After spawning, it is important to remove the parent fish, because they may eat the eggs.

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