Reticulated Tetra

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Widespread in various South American basins, including the Amazon River (Brazil). Swims in slow-flowing rivers rich in humic matter or in flooded forest pools sheltered by aquatic plants and tree canopies.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Reticulate Tetra (Hyphessobrycon reticulatus). Named after the "net-like" pattern visible on the scales, where the dark edge of each creates a reticulated effect. Compact and slightly ovoid body morphology.

Social Behavior: Peaceful gregarious fish. Extremely active at dawn and dusk. Must be kept in dense schools (minimum 8 specimens) in which dominant males will interact visually by waving their fins to establish small, harmless hierarchies.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Silvery-golden base color, dominated by the pronounced dark mesh pattern on the scales (reticulum). Presence of a visible humeral spot. Males can be recognized by slightly more pointed fins and more amber nuances.

Aquarium Setup: Moderate aquarium (70-80 cm / 28-32 inches), preferably set up as a forest biotope: sandy or dark fine gravel bottom, thick rear vegetation, and branching roots. Avoid excessively glaring LED lights.

Diet and Feeding: Accommodating omnivore. Readily accepts commercial foods, but requires protein supplements two or three times a week with frozen foods (bloodworms, daphnia, mysis) to thrive and shine.

Water Quality: Hardy compared to other small Amazonian tetras. Fairly tolerates medium hardness and neutral pH water, but will show optimal colors and vigor in sub-acidic conditions (pH 6.5) filtered through alder cones.

Compatibility and Tankmates: An excellent guest. Perfect in quiet communities with Otocinclus, Farlowella, dwarf Corydoras, and small shy Cichlids. A decent swimmer, it does not bother tankmates and minds its own business.

Aquarium Reproduction: Typical egg-scatterer without parental care. Often, in mature and heavily planted aquariums, some fry miraculously survive and suddenly appear in the tank. Massive breeding requires sterile tanks with a grid.

Risks and Diseases: Very resilient species. Pathologies only trigger if subjected to dietary deficiencies or neglected aquarium hygiene. It is best not to skip partial water changes.