Red eyed characin
Introduction
The Red-Eyed Characin (Arnoldichthys spilopterus), also known as the Niger Tetra or African Red-Eyed Tetra, is a captivating freshwater fish cherished by aquarists for its striking appearance and lively behavior. Characterized by a sleek, silver body adorned with a bold iridescent lateral line and distinctive red eyes, this species adds vibrancy to any aquarium. Its active nature and peaceful temperament make it an excellent choice for both beginner and intermediate fishkeepers seeking to enhance their community tanks.
What makes the Red-Eyed Characin a popular choice among aquarists?
Its unique coloration, energetic schooling behavior, and adaptability to various tank conditions contribute to its popularity.
Is the Red-Eyed Characin suitable for novice fishkeepers?
Yes, its hardy nature and straightforward care requirements make it well-suited for beginners.
Care and Environment
Proper care of the Red-Eyed Characin involves attention to tank size, water parameters, diet, and habitat setup to ensure a healthy and thriving environment.
What is the minimum tank size for a Red-Eyed Characin?
A minimum of 95 liters is recommended to provide adequate space for a small group, as they are shoaling fish that thrive in groups of six or more.
What are the ideal water parameters for this species?
Maintain a temperature between 24-26°C, pH levels from 6.0 to 8.0, and water hardness between 5-19°dGH to replicate their natural habitat conditions.
What should be included in the tank setup?
Incorporate dense planting along the sides and back, leaving open swimming areas in the center. Use dark substrates to enhance their coloration and provide hiding spots with driftwood or rocks.
What is the recommended diet for Red-Eyed Characins?
They are omnivorous and should be fed a balanced diet of high-quality flake or pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to maintain their health and coloration.
Are there any specific challenges in keeping Red-Eyed Characins?
They are generally hardy but can be sensitive to poor water quality. Regular maintenance and monitoring are essential to prevent stress and disease.
Origin and Habitat
Native to West Africa, specifically the lower Niger and Ogun Rivers in Nigeria, the Red-Eyed Characin inhabits slow-moving or still waters such as riverine floodplains and swamps. These environments are characterized by dense aquatic vegetation, providing ample hiding spots and a rich source of food. The natural waters are typically warm, with soft to moderately hard water and a slightly acidic to neutral pH, conditions that should be mirrored in the aquarium to promote their well-being.
Where is the Red-Eyed Characin naturally found?
It is indigenous to the lower Niger and Ogun Rivers in Nigeria.
What type of natural habitats do they prefer?
They thrive in slow-moving or still waters with abundant aquatic vegetation, such as riverine floodplains and swamps.
Temperament and Compatibility
The Red-Eyed Characin is a peaceful, shoaling species that flourishes when kept in groups of six or more. Their social nature not only enhances their well-being but also adds dynamic movement to the aquarium. They are best suited for community tanks with other peaceful species of similar size. However, caution is advised when selecting tank mates, as they may nip at fish with long, flowing fins. Suitable companions include other tetras, Corydoras catfish, plecostomus, kuhli loaches, barbs, danios, and rasboras.
How does the Red-Eyed Characin behave in a community tank?
They are active and peaceful, making them excellent additions to community aquariums with compatible species.
Are there any fish that should be avoided as tank mates?
Yes, avoid housing them with larger predatory fish or species with long, flowing fins to prevent potential fin nipping.
Interesting Facts
The Red-Eyed Characin exhibits fascinating behaviors and characteristics that intrigue aquarists. Males display more vivid coloration, especially during breeding periods, with distinctive markings on their anal fins. Breeding involves the female scattering up to 1,000 eggs among plants, which hatch within 24-30 hours. To protect the eggs from being eaten, it's advisable to remove the parents post-spawning. Additionally, their preference for densely planted environments with open swimming spaces reflects their natural habitat, emphasizing the importance of replicating such conditions in captivity.
How can you distinguish between male and female Red-Eyed Characins?
Males typically have more vibrant colors and specific markings on their anal fins compared to females.
What is unique about their breeding behavior?
Females can lay up to 1,000 eggs, which hatch quickly, necessitating the removal of parents to prevent egg predation.
Sources
All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources: