How old does a Danio fish have to be to determine the gender?

Question

I've tried twice to get a male Danio, but they ended up being females. Is getting an older fish the only way to be sure? It's hard to find older Danios. I have 3 females (Zebra, Leopard long-fin and Gold) now which are puffy with eggs. Do you know how many eggs a female can have?

The people at the pet store can't even tell the difference. The last guy said "How do you know which ones are males?..."

Answer 1

It's harder to tell with young fish (like you see at the pet store). In older fish, the males zebra danios usually have some yellow in their stripes. In general the adult males will be a little more intensely colored and not as plump as females.

The best way to increase your chances of getting a male when they're young is to get a group of about 4 - at least one should be a male.

Up to 200 eggs per female

Answer 2

I have 4 female and 2 male golden danios. The males are skinnier, torpedo shaped. The females have rounder, lower hanging bellies. They have been together 5 months and although 2 of the females are heavily laden, none of laid eggs: not in the flower pots, on the bridge, any of the areas. I removed them from my community tank to a smaller one with just them and a few platys...and still ? Nothing. But they ARE supposed to be VERY easy breeders :)

Answer 3

About six months. Females are larger and plumper. Put a terra cotta pot in there. She will lay the eggs along side of it, then they are less likely to be eaten.

Answer 4

Did you ask the pet store if they can give you a male?


usually they know.