Pretty Tetra

Introduction


The body of the Pretty Tetra is deep when compared with the other members of this family.On mature specimens, the back and head are dark gray-green color shading through to a purple copper and down to a silver lower half.As with other silvery species , iridescences are seen according to lighting conditions.The scales are dark edged, and the eye is red above and pale bluish green below.The top of the caudal peduncle is marked with a gold line, beneath which a dark patch extends forward, terminating near the dorsal fin.

Common Name


Black wedge tetra ,Garnet tetra,Pretty Tetra.


Species


Hemigrammus pulcher



Habitat 


Peruvian section of the Amazon River.


Maximum Size


About 2"(5cm).


Minimum Tank Size 


A tank measuring at least 24" x 15" x 12" (60cm x 37.5cm x 30cm) - 70 litre tank.


Diet 


They are Omnivorous , so can eat most of the foods.Frozen flakes and live foods.A varied diet will ensure the fish develop the best colors and condition.Daily meals of small live and frozen fare such as Daphnia, Artemia and suchlike will result in the best colouration and encourage the fish to come into breeding condition. A small net bag filled with aquarium-safe peat can be added to the filter to aid in the simulation of black water conditions. Use fairly dim lighting.


Water Temperature


74-80°F (23-27°C).


pH


5.0 - 7.0


Hardness


1-12°H


Remark


This popular fish will breed in captivity but may be reluctant to spawn unless full compatibility between the sexes is achieved.The female should be swollen with eggs before introducing her to the male.Use a heavily planted , 24 in (60cm) tank for breeding.