Niger Tetra

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Western Africa, endemic to coastal river systems in Nigeria, particularly the Niger Delta. Inhabits slow-flowing forest streams under dense canopy.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Belongs to the Alestidae family (African tetras). Characterized by large, highly reflective scales and a robust body. Grows up to 10.0 cm in length.

Social Behavior: Active and gregarious. Requires a school of at least 6 fish to establish a natural hierarchy and feel comfortable in open water.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Body is highly iridescent green and bronze, with a thick gold line along the upper side. The eye has a striking red upper iris. Males show bold black and red stripes on their anal fin.

Aquarium Setup: A tank of at least 150 liters (100 cm long) is required. Provide planting along the back and sides but ensure a wide, unobstructed central area for active swimming. A tight lid is essential.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous and voracious. Feeds readily on surface insects, flakes, floating pellets, and frozen foods such as mysis, daphnia, and small krill.

Water Quality: Needs stable, clean water with efficient biological filtration. Keep water temperature at 23-28 °C, pH at 6.0-8.0, and hardness at 5-15 dGH.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Peaceful but energetic. Best housed with active, similarly sized species such as other African tetras, medium-sized barbs, and synodontis catfish.

Aquarium Breeding: Egg scatterer. Requires soft, acidic water and a large spawning tank with fine plants. Remove the adult school immediately after spawning to protect the eggs.

Risks and Diseases: Exceptional jumping ability makes a secure cover glass or lid mandatory. Prone to injuries if startled into colliding with hard decor.