Danio rerio var. Butterfly Fin Emerald – 3–3.5 inches

Appearance

A stunning variation of the classic Zebra Danio, the Butterfly Fin Emerald sport elongated, flowing dorsal and caudal fins that evoke butterfly wings. Their bodies display a striking neon green or emerald coloration, making them a radiant and eye-catching addition to aquariums.

Size

• Adult length: 3–3.5 inches.

• The elongated fins accentuate their size, giving them a more graceful appearance.

Behavior & Social Dynamics

• Energetic and lively schooling fish — best kept in groups of 6 or more to promote natural activity and reduce stress.

• Peaceful and compatible with similar, non-aggressive tankmates. Their long fins may be prone to nipping in mixed tanks, so avoid housing them with fin-nippers.

Tank & Water Conditions

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (to accommodate active swimming).

• Temperature: ~72–79°F (22–26°C).

• pH: 6.5–7.5.

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard.

• Setup Recommendations: Provide open swimming space with moderate current, interspersed with plants and driftwood. Ensure gentle filtration to protect their delicate fins.

Diet

• Omnivorous and not finicky—it thrives on high-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia.

• A varied diet enhances their vivid green coloration.

Lifespan

• Long-tail danios tend to live 3–5 years with proper care and water quality.