Galaxy Rasbora

Species Profile Scientific Name: Celestichthys margaritatus Common Name: Galaxy Rasbora / Celestial Pearl Danio Adult Size: 0.75–1 inch (2–2.5 cm) Life Expectancy: 3–5 years Habitat: Native to small, heavily vegetated, spring-fed ponds in Myanmar (Burma), particularly around Hopong near Inle Lake Tank Requirements Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) Ideal Temperature: 22°C – 26°C (72°F – 79°F) pH Range: 6.5 – 7.5 Water Hardness: 2 – 10 dGH Temperament: Peaceful, shy, best kept in groups of 6 or more. Does well in community tanks with other small, gentle species. Diet & Nutrition Diet: Omnivorous Preferred Foods: Micropellets, crushed flake food, live or frozen microfoods like daphnia, brine shrimp, cyclops Feeding Tips: Due to their tiny size, offer small, high-quality food particles. Feed once or twice daily. Breeding & Spawning Breeding Difficulty: Moderate Spawning Type: Egg-scatterer Breeding Conditions: Soft, slightly acidic water (~pH 6.8), with moss or fine-leaved plants to catch eggs Spawning Behavior: Males display vibrant colors to court females. Eggs are scattered, and fry may hatch in 2–3 days. Remove adults post-spawning to prevent egg predation. Appearance Coloration: Deep blue body with iridescent white or gold “pearl-like” spots, red-orange fins with dark striping Size & Shape: Small and torpedo-shaped, with vivid contrast between body and fins Distinctive Features Beautiful spotted pattern reminiscent of a galaxy Males are more vividly colored and display more often Peaceful and well-suited to nano planted tanks Sensitive to stress and poor water quality — regular maintenance is essential