Fire Dario
Dario hysginon

Basic Information
Maximum Size: 2"

Recommended Aquarium Size: 10-G Minimum

pH: 6.5 - 7.8

Hardness: 2-10°

Temperature: 72 - 80 °

Temperment: Peaceful. Males may fight.

The Flame Dario
 

Closely related to the familiar Badis, the Flame Dario (Dario hysginon) is a beautiful alternative. Males are a bright red, while females are much more subdued. Reaching a somewhat larger size of about 2", these fish are much easier to feed than the tiny Badis. They are a similar micropredator, and will happily eat live blackworms, mosquito larvae, daphnia, and similar foods in the aquarium. Typically, they will quickly adapt to frozen and other prepared foods.
Males of this species are somewhat intolerant of each other, and decorations in the tank should be arranged to not only give each male a cave, but to break up any sight-lines. Well planted aquariums are ideal for this fish. It is otherwise quite peaceful.
Tankmates should be chosen with care, and it is best maintained in a species only tank. These are shy, slow moving fishes which can be quickly outcompeted by more active feeding fishes. Other tankmates could include small tetras (Ember, Glass Fire, Green Fire, etc), pencilfish, or small Corydoras.