Diamond Tetra

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Lake Valencia and neighboring river basins (Venezuela). Inhabits very shallow, turbid or vegetation-rich waters along sandy shores, shielded from light.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Diamond Tetra (Moenkhausia pittieri). Bodied South American Tetra (sturdy and diamond-shaped). Has significantly larger and raised scales compared to other small characins, perfect for refracting light.

Social Behavior: Schooling species (min. 8-10 specimens). Males establish fake hierarchical skirmishes by spreading their majestic fins without hurting each other. It is a very active mid-water swimmer.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Living spectacle at maturity: the scales reflect light like tiny iridescent green/gold/blue diamonds (Diamond Tetra). Adult males have extremely long and flowing dorsal and anal fins, often tinged with deep purple.

Aquarium Setup: They stand out only under studied lights. Use dark substrate, dimmed lights (or filtered by floating plants) to make the refraction of their "diamond" scales shine. Tanks from 90 cm (36 inches) upwards.

Diet and Feeding: Voracious and greedy omnivore. Flakes and granules will be swept away in a few seconds at the surface or mid-water. Offer drosophila, freeze-dried brine shrimp and 30% vegetable feeds (Spirulina) to preserve the colors.

Water Quality: Hardier than the average South American characin. Tolerates moderately hard water well, although the best colors are seen with a slightly acidic pH (6.5) and peat in the filter.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Community but with a strong tendency to "fin-nipping" if kept in small numbers. Avoid fish with veiled fins (Guppies, Bettas, Angelfish) and opt for Corydoras, Ancistrus and fast dwarf cichlids (Apistogramma).

Aquarium Reproduction: Free spawners. By shielding an aquarium and inserting moss or synthetic wool mops, pregnant females will release dozens of eggs that will fall safely. Immediately remove the cannibalistic parents.

Risks and Diseases: Over-feeding. Driven by an atavistic hunger, they will compete hard for food, quickly becoming obese or ending up starving the slower species of the community (e.g. the more timid cichlids will waste away from hunger).