Long Fin Gold Zebra Danio

Long Fin Gold Zebra Danio (Danio rerio) combines two captive-developed traits in one fish: the gold gene, which replaces the standard silver-blue base color with a warm golden-yellow tone, and the longfin mutation, which dramatically extends all fins into flowing, ribbon-like structures. The result is a warm golden fish with beautifully trailing fins that billow with each movement — particularly striking in the flowing dorsal and caudal fins.

Feeding & Care Tip: Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes and Hikari Micro Pellets make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms or Hikari Vibra Bites to enhance color and condition. Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp are an excellent additional treat. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily. A tight-fitting lid is strongly recommended — danios are enthusiastic jumpers.

The gold color morph emerged in captive breeding and produces a warm amber-gold body tone while retaining the horizontal striping characteristic of D. rerio — the stripes appear as golden and darker gold rather than silver and blue. The longfin mutation extends all fins significantly beyond normal length. The combination of both in one fish is a selective breeding achievement.

Keep in groups of at least five. The extended fins require clean water and gentle filtration — strong currents tatter the fins over time. Do not keep with any fin-nipping species without exception; even normally peaceful fish may investigate flowing fins. Tiger Barbs, serpae tetras, and other known nippers are incompatible.

Danios are prolific and easy egg-scatterers that spawn with little encouragement in a well-maintained aquarium. Males chase females vigorously before spawning among fine-leaved plants or over the substrate. Eggs and fry receive no parental care — adults will eat eggs if given the chance. For intentional breeding, a separate shallow tank with spawning mops or fine-leaved plants, slightly warmer water, and removal of adults after spawning is straightforward and reliable. The longfin trait is dominant — crossing with standard-fin fish produces longfin offspring. The gold gene is recessive — two copies required for full gold expression.

Care & Ideal Parameters