Red-base Tetra

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Widely distributed in the Amazon and Orinoco basins, and Guianas. Found in slow-flowing forest streams with plenty of fallen leaves.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Genere Hemigrammus. Sleek, laterally compressed body shape. Adults can grow to about 5-6 cm in length.

Social Behavior: Highly peaceful schooling fish. Requires a group of 8 or more individuals to feel secure and prevent shyness in the aquarium.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Features a semi-translucent silvery body, highlighted by a prominent red spot at the base of the tail. Females are plumper.

Aquarium Setup: An aquarium of 80 liters minimum with dimmed lighting. Use floating plants and driftwood branches to provide hiding places.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous. Readily accepts dried flakes and micro pellets. Regular feeding of frozen artemia or daphnia is highly recommended.

Water Quality: Keep pH between 5.5 and 7.2, and GH below 10. Sensitive to poor water chemistry; do weekly partial water changes.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Peaceful community fish. Ideal tankmates include other tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, and corydoras.

Aquarium Breeding: Egg-scatterer. Needs soft, acidic water and fine-leaved vegetation. Remove parents after spawning to protect the eggs.

Risks and Diseases: Jump risk if startled. Always keep the aquarium securely covered.