Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Peaceful

They are generally peaceful, solitary, or loosely schooling fish that can be somewhat timid in bare tanks. Males display a fascinating territoriality during breeding but are otherwise peaceful toward other species. They thrive in a quiet environment where they can slowly forage among the vegetation.

Diet

Omnivore

They are micropredators in the wild, feeding primarily on small insects and larvae near the water's surface. In captivity, they readily accept high-quality crushed flakes and micro-pellets. For optimal health and breeding, their diet must be supplemented with live or frozen foods like daphnia and bloodworms.

Sex ratio

Specific M:F ratio

A ratio of one male to two or three females is ideal. Males are territorial during spawning and may become aggressive toward other males if space is limited. A larger tank with plenty of visual barriers allows for keeping multiple males successfully.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Feeding them small amounts twice daily is the best practice for maintaining their health. They feed primarily near the surface, so care must be taken that food remains floating long enough for them to eat. Overfeeding should be strictly avoided to prevent water quality issues.

Bioload

This slender characin has a very low bioload, making it an excellent choice for smaller, heavily planted aquariums. Their neat eating habits and small size mean they contribute very little to nitrate accumulation. Standard filtration and routine water changes easily maintain the pristine water conditions they require.

Flow

Stagnant

They originate from sluggish streams and flooded forests in South America, making them prefer very gentle water flow. Strong currents will cause them stress and force them to hide constantly. A sponge filter or heavily baffled power filter is highly recommended for this species.

Jump risk

Yes

Because they spend much of their time near the surface, they are a moderate jump risk. An aquarium with a tight-fitting lid is absolutely necessary to prevent accidental leaping. Floating plants not only provide security but also act as a physical barrier to jumping.

Reproduction

Oviparous

Unlike most characins, males of this species provide some parental care by guarding the eggs. They spawn on broad-leaved plants near the surface, and the male will vigorously defend the site until the eggs hatch. The fry are extremely small and require infusoria as their first food.

Compatibility & tankmates

They are peaceful, somewhat shy fish that do well in community tanks with similarly sized, non-aggressive species. Good tank mates include small tetras, pencilfish, Corydoras, and peaceful dwarf cichlids. They should never be housed with large, aggressive, or overly boisterous fish that might outcompete them for food.

Tank level

All levels

They are predominantly top-to-midwater dwellers that enjoy hovering just beneath the surface or among tall plants. They rarely visit the bottom of the tank unless lured by food. Providing tall, broad-leaved plants caters to their natural resting and spawning behaviors.