Red eyed tetra
Introduction
The Red Eye Tetra (Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae) is a popular freshwater fish among aquarists, renowned for its striking silver body and distinctive red eye. This species adds a touch of elegance to community aquariums and is appreciated for its hardy nature and ease of care, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced fishkeepers.
What makes the Red Eye Tetra a good choice for beginners?
Red Eye Tetras are resilient and adaptable, tolerating a range of water conditions, which simplifies maintenance for beginners.
How large do Red Eye Tetras grow?
They typically reach an adult size of about 7 cm (2.75 inches).
Care and Environment
Providing optimal care for Red Eye Tetras involves attention to tank size, water parameters, and environmental enrichment.
What is the minimum tank size for a single Red Eye Tetra?
A minimum tank size of 57 liters (15 gallons) is recommended for a small group of Red Eye Tetras, as they are schooling fish and thrive in groups.
What are the ideal water parameters for Red Eye Tetras?
Maintain a temperature between 22°C and 28°C (72°F to 82°F), a pH range of 5.5 to 8.5, and water hardness between 2 to 30 dGH.
How should the tank be decorated to suit Red Eye Tetras?
Incorporate live plants, driftwood, and rocks to mimic their natural habitat, providing hiding spots and open swimming areas.
Regular water changes of 25% to 50% every two weeks are essential to maintain water quality. A gentle filtration system is recommended to avoid strong currents, as Red Eye Tetras prefer calm waters. Feeding should include a balanced diet of high-quality flakes or pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms, and occasional vegetable matter such as blanched spinach.
Origin and Habitat
Red Eye Tetras are native to South America, specifically found in regions of Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Peru. They inhabit clear rivers and streams, often in areas with dense vegetation and slow-moving waters. These environments provide ample hiding spots and a rich ecosystem, which is beneficial for their survival and reproduction.
What type of water bodies do Red Eye Tetras naturally inhabit?
They are typically found in clear rivers and streams with slow-moving currents and dense vegetation.
How does their natural habitat influence their care in aquariums?
Replicating their natural environment with plants and calm waters helps reduce stress and promotes natural behaviors.
Temperament and Compatibility
Red Eye Tetras are peaceful, schooling fish that thrive in groups of six or more. They are generally compatible with other non-aggressive species of similar size.
Are Red Eye Tetras suitable for community tanks?
Yes, they coexist well with other peaceful fish such as other tetras, rainbowfish, barbs, danios, and larger rasboras.
Do Red Eye Tetras exhibit any aggressive behaviors?
While typically peaceful, they may occasionally nip at the fins of slow-moving, long-finned fish, especially if not kept in adequate group sizes.
To create a harmonious tank community, avoid housing them with aggressive or significantly larger species that may intimidate or prey on them. Providing ample space and maintaining a well-structured environment with hiding spots can help mitigate potential stress and aggression.
Interesting Facts
Red Eye Tetras are known for their adaptability and resilience, making them a staple in the aquarium trade. They are omnivorous and have a varied diet in the wild, feeding on worms, insects, crustaceans, and plant matter. In captivity, they readily accept a range of foods, contributing to their ease of care.
How long do Red Eye Tetras typically live?
With proper care, they can live up to five years in a home aquarium.
Are Red Eye Tetras easy to breed in captivity?
Breeding can be challenging, as they are egg scatterers and may eat their own eggs if not separated promptly.
These tetras are also known for their active swimming behavior, adding dynamic movement to aquariums. Their striking appearance and lively nature make them a favorite among aquarists seeking to enhance the visual appeal of their tanks.
Sources
All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources:
Overview
Recommended Tank Size 19.8 Gallon (for groups of 6 or more) |
Minimum Group Size 6 |
Minimum Tank Volume 15.1 Gallon |
Maximum Adult Length 2.8 inch |
Average Adult Length 2.8 inch |
Shoaling (6+ required) Yes |
Preferred Water Type Freshwater, adaptable to a range of conditions |
Temperature Range (°C) 22–28 |
pH Range 5.5–8.5 |
Water Hardness (dGH) 2–30 |
Typical Lifespan (years) 5 years |