Celestial Pearl Danio (Danio margaritatus) is a beginner-level freshwater fish that needs at least 10 gallons and 73-79°F. Also called the galaxy rasbora. Males show spangled orange fins and females are plumper and paler. Peaceful and small, but shy until they feel secure.

Care facts at a glance

Scientific nameDanio margaritatus
FamilyDanionidae
OriginMyanmar
Adult size1 in
Minimum tank10 gallons
Temperature73-79°F
pH6.5-7.5
TemperamentPeaceful
Social behaviorGroups, keep 6+
Swim levelMid to upper
DifficultyBeginner
DietMicro pellets, flakes, frozen foods
Typical lifespan3-5 years

Quick tips

  • Plants and floating cover help them settle in.
  • Keep a group with a good mix of males and females.

San Diego water

Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.

Before you buy

Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.

Find it at Pet Zone

Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.

Pet Zone Convoy

4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm

Aquascaping, planted tanks

Pet Zone Mid-City

4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm

Monster fish, koi