What specific environment did wild Danio rerio initially thrive in, excluding massive river channels?
Answer
Shallow, slow-moving streams and still pools near stream margins
The native environment for *Danio rerio* consists specifically of freshwater habitats in South Asia, characterized by less extreme conditions than the main river bodies. These fish flourish in shallow areas that have slow water movement. Crucially, during the monsoon season, they especially favor the still pools that form along the margins of these streams. This preference for slower, shallower water contrasts with the main, turbulent channels of massive river systems like the Ganges, where they are generally absent. Their ability to inhabit these varied hydrological settings contributes to their high genetic diversity.

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