Socolof's Tetra

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Originating from Brazil, particularly in the Rio Negro system. Inhabits the slow "blackwater" tributaries (Igarapés), acidic and impregnated with tannins released by the decomposition of the thick forest above.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Socolof's Tetra / Spotfin Tetra (Hyphessobrycon socolofi). Dedicated to importer Ross Socolof. It has the classic moderately compressed body of the Hyphessobrycon genus and is renowned for its appearance extremely similar to H. erythrostigma (Bleeding Heart) but on a smaller scale and without a red spot.

Social Behavior: Strongly schooling and peaceful. Males tend to spar without ever hurting themselves for the control of a tiny temporary territory in the thick of the tank. Must reside in groups of at least 8 individuals.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Splendid contrast: semi-diaphanous pinkish body, but unlike erythrostigma, it does not have the "bleeding heart". The key feature is a large conspicuous dark spot on the dorsal fin, often bordered with bright white. Males with a larger and more pointed dorsal fin.

Aquarium Setup: Prefers shade and a true Blackwater biotope. Tanks of at least 80 cm (32 inches), sifted white sand bottom, very few shade-loving plants (Anubias, Moss) covered by roots projecting tangles and dry leaves over the entire substrate.

Diet and Feeding: Natural insectivore/micro-predator. In addition to quality crumbled dry food, to keep the white color of the fin vivid it is necessary to provide micro-organisms such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and small larvae (bloodworms).

Water Quality: Not suitable for beginners or aquariums with hard tap water. Strictly demands soft (low GH) and acidic (pH around 6.0) water, with frequent water changes and the use of filtering peat.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Excellent to accompany acidic water cichlids such as Discus (if the tank is not too hot, max 28°C / 82°F), ramirezi, apistogramma or large schools of Hemigrammus bleheri or Paracheirodon axelrodi.

Aquarium Reproduction: Complex, as it depends on correct pH and very low conductivity. Pairs, isolated in 20-liter tanks in dim light, scatter their eggs in the morning. Remove the adults immediately. Larvae are extremely photophobic.

Risks and Diseases: The large fins of the males are delicate and subject to bacterial infections (Fin rot) if nitrates and ammonia are not meticulously monitored. Failure to acclimate gently leads to osmotic shock.