Other Names:
Blue Tetra, Blue Colombian Tetra, Red-Finned Tetra.
Scientific Name:
Hyphessobrycon colombianus (Zarske & Géry, 2002)
Possibly the same species as Hyphessobrycon ecuadoriensis.
Range:
South America: small creeks and streams in Colombia.
Maximum size:
Approx. 6-7cm. (2-3").
Aquarium:
This very active, medium-sized Tetra prefers a heavily planted tank with dimmed lights, soft, slightly acidic to neutral water and good oxygenation is ideal for this lively little Characin. A tank with a length of 40" (100cm.) is necessary to provide a shoal of 6-8 fish ample space to thrive. For a larger group a more sizable tank is required.
Temperature:
pH:
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Diet:
The Colombia Tetra is omnivorous and will accept small live, frozen and dry foods. It may also nibble (and damage) plants with tender leafs if not fed enough, or not enough plant matter: to avoid this, a couple of lettuce or spinach leafs can be fed occasionally (see pictures below).
Temperament:
A very active fish that mainly inhabits the middle and upper layers of the tank, and should be kept in a shoal of at least 5-6 fish. Solitary Colombia Tetra's tend to become either very shy or neurotic, which can result in attacks on and harrasment of smaller fish. Older specimen are also known to become more intolerant as well.
The Colombia Tetra establishes a pecking order within the group, which can lead to occasional fights. It is also territorial in nature, and will claim and defend a small patch against its own kind and similar-looking fish. Against other fish in the aquarium it is generaly peaceful, although it is known to occasionally harass or even nip small weakened or injured tank mates. Additionally, it has the reputation of being a fin-nipper, and although not as much as its close relative the Serpae Tetra, it is not recommended to keep the Colombia Tetra with long-finned fish such as Gourami's, Discus or Angel Fish.
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