
Generally, African Red-eyed Tetras are not a tricky species to spawn however, it's rarely attempted for some reason. African Red-eyed Tetras are currently classified as endangered by the ICUN due to their limited range, losses to the aquarium trade, and continuous habitat degradation. They inhabit tannin-stained streams and rivers. Natural habitat of the African Red Eyed TetraĪfrican Red-eyed Tetras are endemic to the Ogun and lower Niger river systems in Nigeria in Africa. These fish also display black and yellow colouring in their dorsal fin and have a yellowish-gold hue on their upper eye.

In addition, these Tetras have a silvery body however, they develop a very noticeable iridescent blue, green and yellow colouration as they mature. Unlike many Characins, African Red-eyed Tetras have very large scales giving them a slightly barb-like appearance. These fish are quite sensitive to poor water quality and will not do well if maintenance and water changes are not performed regularly. Adding a few dried leaves will also help to achieve this result. Filtering over peat would help mimic their natural waters, which are often stained brown from the tannins released by decaying organic matter. The ideal aquarium for these Tetras would contain driftwood roots and branches, smooth stones and aquatic plants however, you must make sure you leave plenty of open swimming space for these active species. It would be best to avoid housing these Tetras with shy species, species with intricate fins or very small fish. Ideal tankmates for African Red-eyed Tetras should be of similar size and temperament these can include other Tetras from the same family, Catfish and robust African Dwarf Cichlids, to name a few. African Red-eyed Tetras are rare in the wild and are not usually available to fish keeping enthusiasts. Keeping these fish in more significant numbers will result in a more engaging, natural-looking display. These Tetras are a schooling species in nature therefore, you should keep them in a group of at least ten individuals. These fish also thrive in water with a pH of 5.5–7.5, and the tank water should stay between 72–78℉.African Red-eyed Tetras are a peaceful, hardy and highly active species that makes an excellent member of the West African themed community aquarium. Red phantom tetras prefer a large tank that is at least 24 inches long. The habitat of appropriate tetra-friendly fish tanks includes plants and other animals that are appropriate to keep as companions to your red tetra collection. So closely copy the water conditions of the waters of the upper Amazon River in your aquarium. The watercourse of the Amazon River is home to fields of aquatic grasses or floating meadows, water lilies such as the Victoria amazonica, giant floating lily, and lianas.

It is plant-rich, and the decaying plant matter contributes to the unique environment that the tetras thrive in. The Amazon River is a blackwater environment with a slightly acidic pH. The conditions you keep your red phantom tetras in should mimic their natural environment. You should replace carbon in the water filter after copper-based treatments. Add antibiotics and copper-based treatments to the tank water to alleviate the parasitic load and give the fish a chance at recovery.

These conditions need to be treated with antibiotics. Bacterial infections - such as red pest, columnaris, and tail and fin rot.

In the wild, tetras will reach their expected average size, but tetras may be smaller in captivity due to living in confined aquariums. Female red phantom tetras are wider than males, and males are also bright and colorful, whereas females have a dull coloration. Adult Size & LifespanĪdult red phantom tetras can grow up to 1.5 inches long. You will notice males bumping into females to show that they are ready to mate. Red phantom tetras can be bred in captivity. The Amazon River is highly vegetated and thriving with wildlife. This fish is found in the Amazon River’s tributaries and ponds and in the Orinoco tributary of the Amazon River. The red phantom tetra ( Hyphessobrycon sweglesi) is originally from South America. Advertisements Category Rating Care Level Moderate Temperament Docile, but an opportunistic omnivore Color Bronze body with red-tipped fins Lifespan ~5 years Size ~1.5 inches Diet Omnivore Family Characidae Scientific Name Hyphessobrycon sweglesi Minimum Tank Size >14 gallons Tank Setup Freshwater, plants, caves Compatibility Peaceful, shoaling species Distribution
