Brachydanio kyathit “Orange Finned Danio”

Also known as Danio kyathit, Brachydanio kyathit, the Orange Finned Danio, is a relatively new species compared to many of the classic bread & butter Danio species that have been widely available for decades like the related Zebra Danio. A larger species than other “slightly oddball” Danios like Glowlights and the Goldring (Tinwini), the Orange Finned Danio can reach an adult size of up to 2″. Current literature suggests there are two distinct color forms for this species, a striped and spotted form. Both forms are present in the current group, although the striped form is predominant.

Note, at a glance you might confuse the spotted form with B. tinwini. The two can easily be separated by looking at the pattern of the dorsal and anal fins; B. tiniwini is spotted, wheres spotted forms of B. kyathit have striped dorsal and anal fins.

The first time we received them, they truly “freaked out” upon introduction, and they are among the most active danios we’ve had in the fishroom. They appear to be very peaceful, are not at all nippy, and have a distinct appearance despite initial similarities to the common Zebra Danio. A lid is a must for these active fish. They are strongly schooling fish, so we would suggest purchasing larger groups.

*Apologies for the image quality; between the zippy nature of the fish, and the copious amounts of detritus in the tank from a big Bristlenose Pleco pair, you’re lucky to have images at all!