Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Aggressive

This species has a lively and sometimes semi-aggressive temperament, especially if kept in too small of a group. They establish a pecking order within their school through frequent chasing and minor squabbles. Providing a large group and plenty of space minimizes their nipping tendencies towards other species.

Diet

Omnivore

While omnivorous, this species has a strong tendency to consume plant matter and may damage delicate aquatic plants. A diet rich in vegetable matter, such as spirulina flakes or blanched spinach, should be provided. They will also eagerly consume standard meaty prepared and frozen foods.

Sex ratio

Group

Maintaining a proper sex ratio is less critical for this species compared to some others, as they are a schooling fish. Keeping them in groups of at least eight to ten individuals ensures natural behavior and reduces stress. Having a mix of males and females can help diffuse any minor squabbles among displaying males.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

These active fish benefit from multiple small feedings throughout the day rather than one large meal. Feeding them two to three times daily with amounts they can consume in under two minutes is ideal. This schedule helps prevent bloating and keeps water parameters stable by reducing uneaten food.

Bioload

Medium

As a moderately sized fish, this species produces an average bioload in the aquarium. Proper filtration is necessary to process the waste it generates efficiently. Routine maintenance and regular water changes will ensure a healthy environment.

Flow

Moderate

This species originates from riverine environments and appreciates a moderate amount of water flow in the aquarium. Good water movement encourages their natural swimming and schooling behaviors. A standard canister or power filter will typically provide the ideal current for them.

Jump risk

Yes

While not known as prolific jumpers, they can still leap from the water if startled or pursued by tank mates. Sudden changes in lighting or poor water quality can also trigger this jumping behavior. A tight-fitting lid or cover glass is highly recommended to prevent accidental escapes.

Reproduction

Oviparous

They are egg scatterers that do not provide any parental care to their offspring after spawning. To encourage breeding, a separate tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants is required. Once eggs are laid and fertilized, the adult fish must be removed promptly to prevent them from eating the eggs.

Compatibility & tankmates

Community

This species can be somewhat boisterous and has a tendency to nip the fins of slow-moving or long-finned tank mates. Keeping them in a sufficiently large school can help direct this behavior toward each other rather than other species. Care should be taken when selecting tank mates for this fish.

Tank level

Middle

This species primarily occupies the middle region of the aquarium water column during normal activities. They are active swimmers that appreciate ample open swimming space in the center of the tank. They will frequently dart in and out of plant thickets or hardscape for cover when resting.