Cosmic Blue Longfin Danio GloFish® - Brachydanio rerio var. "Cosmic Blue Glofish" : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Cosmic Blue Zebra Longfin Danio Glofish, an intriguing man-made variant of the classic Zebra Danio (Brachydanio rerio), brings a unique luminescent charm to the aquarium space. This distinctive Glofish, with its radiant blue luminescent stripes, is a product of genetic engineering - a fluorescent protein gene was inserted into the Zebra Danio, causing it to glow under specific light conditions.
However, the commercial availability of these eye-catching creatures varies globally due to differing regulations and perspectives on genetically modified organisms. In the United States, Glofish has been commercially available since 2003 and is one of the few genetically modified animals to be publicly accessible. However, in regions like the European Union, including the UK, and Canada, Glofish are not available for purchase due to restrictions on genetically modified organisms in the pet trade. Australia also strictly regulates the import of all genetically modified organisms, making Glofish unavailable there.
Despite their peaceful nature, mirroring that of their original Zebra Danio counterparts, Blue Zebra Danio Glofish may display occasional mild aggression, like fin-nipping, particularly towards certain species such as Bettas and Angelfish. Still, their ability to coexist with a variety of tank mates makes them a fantastic addition to community tanks. Their robustness is another highlight. These resilient fish adapt impressively to a range of water conditions and temperatures. Interestingly, they can thrive comfortably in cooler temperatures, which eliminates the need for a tank heater.
The Blue Zebra Danio Glofish, blending the natural charm of Zebra Danios with a touch of biotechnological brilliance, provides a captivating, futuristic aesthetic to aquariums in regions where they are permitted. Their striking luminescence is a glowing testimony to the innovative possibilities of science within the realm of aquarium keeping.
Cosmic Blue Longfin Danio GloFish® Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Determining the gender of Cosmic Blue Zebra Longfin Danio Glofish can be a delicate task, as the differences between males and females are often slight. As a general rule, female Zebra Danios are known to exhibit a more rounded shape and are marginally larger in size compared to males. On the other hand, males usually exhibit a more streamlined, torpedo-like form, a testament to their remarkable swimming speed. However, these sex-specific differences aren't always obvious in younger fish. Juveniles, irrespective of their gender, often have strikingly similar appearances. The sexual distinctions become more visible as the fish mature and reach adulthood.
An intriguing fact to keep in mind is that sexual dimorphism - the physical differences between males and females - in Zebra Danios is a trait shared by numerous fish species. This phenomenon has been a subject of curiosity for scientists for many years, sparking extensive research to comprehend its evolutionary advantages. In the context of Zebra Danios, the female's more rounded shape is thought to be an adaptation for carrying a large number of eggs, while the male's streamlined form facilitates fast movements, useful both in pursuing females and evading predators.
However, it's crucial to remember that while you may be able to discern the gender of your Blue Zebra Danio Glofish and even witness spawning behaviour, breeding Glofish as a patented species without a license for commercial purposes is prohibited. This restriction is in place to prevent the uncontrolled dissemination of genetically modified organisms in the environment. Breeding these fascinating creatures should only be considered for personal enjoyment and not intended for sale or distribution.
Quick Facts
Scientific Name | Brachydanio rerio var. "Cosmic Blue Glofish" |
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Year Described | 1822 |
Other Names | Zebra Fish, Striped Danio |
Kingdom | Animalia |
Classification | Actinopterygii |
Order | Cypriniformes |
Family | Cyprinidae |
Genus | Danio |
Origins | |
Max Size | 6.3 cm |
Temperament | Peaceful |
Aquarium Level | Top |
Difficulty | Beginner |
Shoaling | Yes |
Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
Water Type | Freshwater |
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pH | 6.5 - 7.0 |
GH | 5 - 12 |
KH | 1 - 5 |
TDS | 100 - 500 |
℉ | 72 - 82 |
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℃ | 22 -28 |
Natural Habitat
The Zebra Danio, originating from the diverse aquatic landscapes of several Asian countries, including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, and Bhutan, is a captivating species. In their native habitats, these fish flourish in environments characterized by silty substrates and abundant vegetation, providing essential food sources and shelter.
One intriguing aspect of Zebra Danios is their adaptability to changing habitats throughout the seasons. During the dry season, they showcase resourcefulness by seeking refuge in flooded rice fields and temporary puddles, transforming these temporary environments into breeding and feeding grounds. As the rainy season arrives, they migrate back to their original habitats in rivers, streams, and larger bodies of water.
While the Zebra Danio is a fantastic choice for adding exotic allure to your aquarium, it's crucial to note that Glofish, including the Cosmic Blue Zebra Danio Glofish variant, is not found in the wild. They are specifically bred and genetically modified for the ornamental fish trade. Releasing Glofish into natural environments is strictly prohibited. It's essential to emphasize responsible fishkeeping practices and never release Glofish or any other aquarium fish into the wild. This measure ensures the preservation of natural ecosystems and prevents potential harm to native species.
The Zebra Danio's migratory behaviour is truly remarkable, as they demonstrate the ability to thrive in temporary bodies of water. Their resilience and adaptability in varying conditions make them a subject of interest in ecological studies, providing valuable insights into the strategies aquatic creatures employ to survive in challenging environments. By selecting Zebra Danios for your aquarium, you'll not only enjoy their striking appearance and charming behaviours but also contribute to the conservation of natural ecosystems by preventing the release of non-native species.
Breeding
Cosmic Blue Zebra Danio Glofish are widely recognized for their abundant breeding, making them an ideal starting point for novice aquarists looking to immerse themselves in the fascinating realm of fish breeding. A charming facet of their breeding behaviour lies in their generally monogamous nature. Once a pair has successfully spawned, they tend to form life-long bonds, seldom spawning with others, even in the face of a partner's departure.
To facilitate successful pairing, it's advisable to introduce a group of at least six juveniles into the aquarium, which enables them to naturally select their mates. As you gear up for the breeding phase, make sure the tank meets the optimal conditions. This requires a shallow water level and a variety of fine-leaved plants, such as Java moss, offering an ideal hiding place. Furthermore, a layer of coarse gravel, small stones, or marbles is recommended for the tank floor to create a secure environment for egg deposition and to keep the adult fish from reaching the eggs.
Once the eggs have been scattered post-spawning, it's crucial to immediately remove the adult pair to safeguard the eggs from potential predation. Female Zebra Danios are remarkably fecund, capable of laying anywhere from 50 to 500 eggs. These eggs typically hatch within a surprisingly brief span of just two days.
As the newly emerged fry appear, they should be fed finely crushed flake food, suitably sized for their minuscule mouths. For their safety and optimal growth, it's recommended to keep the fry separate from the adult fish. Within approximately 12 weeks, these small creatures can be expected to reach full maturity.
Now, here's an exciting fact: Zebra Danios, despite their small size, are astonishingly swift swimmers. They can achieve speeds of up to 23 body lengths per second! This makes them not only an entertaining spectacle for the viewer but also an intriguing subject for studying fish swimming biomechanics.
However, it's important to note some significant restrictions when it comes to the breeding and selling of the Blue Zebra Danio Glofish variant. The Glofish brand has a patent on these genetically engineered fish, meaning it's illegal to breed and sell them without a license. This legislation applies not just in the countries where Glofish are permitted for commercial sale, like the U.S., but also in places where they're not available commercially. Therefore, any attempts at breeding Glofish should be for personal enjoyment and not for commercial purposes. These regulations are in place to prevent the uncontrolled spread of genetically modified organisms in the environment.
Diet & Feeding
Cosmic Blue Zebra Longfin Danio Glofish are not picky eaters, demonstrating a broad palette that accommodates an array of food types, including flakes, pellets, wafers, and both live or freeze-dried foods. It is crucial, however, to ensure that their food floats on the water's surface, as this is their preferred feeding location. They exhibit an interesting behaviour in that, while they may chase food items sinking through the water column, they generally avoid consuming those that have settled on the tank bottom.
To promote a balanced diet and overall health, it's advisable to incorporate vegetable matter into their meals. This could be achieved through adding specially formulated veggie wafers or flakes into their diet. For optimal nutrition and vitality, Zebra Danios should be fed multiple times throughout the day.
An interesting fact about the Zebra Danio's feeding habits is that their preference for surface feeding is not only about preference but also about survival. In the wild, food that sinks to the bottom of a body of water often decomposes and can be harmful if ingested. Therefore, Zebra Danios' inclination for surface feeding is an adaptation that helps them avoid potential food sources that could be harmful.
Frequently asked questions
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