The Pearl Danio, scientifically known as Danio albolineatus, is a popular freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. The word "pearl" is spelled with the phonetic transcription: /pɜːrl/ which indicates the first syllable has a lax vowel sound followed by an r sound. "Danio" is spelled with the transcription: /ˈdæni.oʊ/, where the stress is on the first syllable, and the last syllable has a diphthong that blends the sounds of "ah" and "oh". Together, the spelling of "pearl danio" accurately represents the pronunciation of this species.
The Pearl Danio, scientifically known as Danio albolineatus, is a small freshwater fish belonging to the family Cyprinidae. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in the rivers and streams of Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, and parts of Indonesia.
With a length that typically reaches about 4 centimeters (1.5 inches), the Pearl Danio is considered a small-sized fish. It possesses an elongated, torpedo-shaped body with a slightly forked tail fin and prominent eyes. Its body is characterized by a pearly, iridescent appearance, with shimmering scales reflecting various colors, including silver, pink, and green. This unique coloration gives the fish its common name, "pearl danio".
Pearl Danios are known for their peaceful temperament, making them suitable for community tanks. They are highly social, displaying a preference for swimming in groups of their species, which also contributes to their remarkable appearance. Additionally, they are relatively hardy and adaptable, making them ideal for beginner aquarists.
In terms of diet, Pearl Danios are omnivorous, consuming a mix of both plant matter and small invertebrates. In an aquarium setting, they can be fed with a range of commercially available fish foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia.
Due to their small size, striking appearance, and peaceful nature, Pearl Danios are popular among aquarium enthusiasts. They add vibrant color and lively activity to aquariums, making them an attractive choice for both beginner and experienced fish keepers.
The word "pearl" in "pearl danio" refers to the appearance of the fish, specifically the pearly iridescent scales that it possesses. The term "pearl" is derived from the Old English word "pearl" and the Old French word "perle", both of which can be traced back to the Latin word "perna", meaning "leg", "shank", or "probe".
The term "danio" comes from the scientific name of the genus to which this fish belongs, which is "Danio". The genus name "Danio" was coined by Francis Hamilton, a Scottish physician and naturalist who studied fish in India in the early 19th century. The origin of the name "Danio" is unclear, but it is believed to be derived from the local Bengali name for some members of this genus.