"Glofish" ID... Zebra Danio care... sel.    11/9/09
I have recently seen a fish called a "Glofish" - a relative of the zebra, yet genetically enhanced to exhibit colors -
<Not "a relative" of the Zebra Danio (Danio rerio) but the same species, just with an extra gene. Maintenance is identical, though they're likely to be somewhat delicate by comparison to standard Zebra Danios thanks to inbreeding and less genetic variation.>
I thought they would make an interesting addition to my tank - What size tank do they require?
<Like Zebra Danios, tank 60 cm/2 feet long is the key thing; these fish get to about 5-6 cm in length and are highly active. In small tanks they're less happy and prone to becoming frustrated bullies.>
Are they a shoaling fish?
<Yes; keep in groups of 6 or more (either 6 Glofish, or a mix of 6 Glofish and standard Zebra Danios, as you prefer).>
Are they compatible with other species of fish?
<Like Zebra Danios in this regard. Community fish, provided not mixed with anything too slow that might be nipped or otherwise harassed.>
In general, what is the best way to keep them healthy and happy?
<As Zebra Danios, with due allowance for their preferred cool water temperature -- 22-25 C is ideal -- and their need for clean water with a good current and lots of oxygen.>
Also, Do they reproduce in species-only tanks?
<In theory they should be easy to spawn, just like Zebra Danios. But when you buy these fish, you actually accept a license that prohibits you from doing so (bizarre as that sounds):
http://glofish.com/license.html
Since these animals aren't sold in the UK, I don't know anyone who has actually bred them (the European Union has restricted sale of genetically modified organisms on public safety, animal welfare and ethical grounds).
Can't say I'm all that bothered by their absence, and I'd encourage you to look for some of the naturally occurring Danio species (like Danio choprae and Danio margaritatus) that are much prettier, in my opinion, and very definitely legal to breed! Cheers, Neale.>