Jelly bean tetra

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to Sierra Leone (West Africa), Kasewe river. Inhabits pristine, densely shaded forest streams with variable currents and dead leaf substrates.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Jellybean Tetra / Sierra Leone Dwarf Characin (Ladigesia roloffi). Belonging to the Alestidae (African Tetras). Tiny, semi-transparent and with the peculiar disproportionately long bilobed caudal fin in males.

Social Behavior: Peaceful, hyperactive and obligate gregarious (Minimum 10-15 specimens). Forms very tight schools in mid-water, where males spend their time showing off (sparing) their elongated tails.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Translucent-bronze body, crossed by an iridescent golden line (above) and a thin black one (below). The belly is silver. The dorsal fin and the caudal base are bright red. Males have a caudal with very elongated median filaments.

Aquarium Setup: Community or dedicated "West African" tank (60 cm / 24 inches). Requires a lively water flow (small wavemaker), amber humic water and lots of submerged fronds (Anubias, Bolbitis).

Diet and Feeding: Micro-predator. Because of its tiny mouth it needs powdered foods or finely crumbled flakes. Newly hatched brine shrimp or micro-worms are perfect.

Water Quality: Intolerant to nitrates or pollutants. Requires soft and slightly acidic water. Sudden changes in pH or hardness cause the immediate deterioration of the marvelous tail filaments.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Ideal with Kribensis (Pelvicachromis) if the tank is long enough, or very small African killifish (Epiplatys). In a South American it will go well with pygmy Corydoras and Otocinclus. Easy prey for any fish over 5 cm (2 inches).

Aquarium Reproduction: Complicated. Egg-scatterer. Needs a separate small tank with floating wool mops, in which they scatter very few eggs early in the morning. Highly prone to cannibalism, parents must be removed instantly.

Risks and Diseases: Commercial extinction and sensitivity. Rare species, caught in politically unstable areas, often arrives heavily compromised by parasites. Scrupulously isolate (Quarantine) new purchases.