Diamond tetra Care Guide

The Diamond Tetra, also known as Moenkhausia pittieri, is a captivating species known for its shimmering scales. With proper care, these moderately hardy fish can thrive in a community setting.

Tank Setup

When setting up a tank for Diamond Tetras, aim for a minimum size of 30 liters, ensuring at least 5 liters of water per fish. They are social creatures and should be kept in groups of at least six to encourage natural schooling behavior. The tank's water should be kept between a pH of 6.5 and 7.5 and a temperature range of 23°C to 27°C. Diamond Tetras inhabit all levels of the tank, so providing ample space with hiding spots like plants, rocks, and decorations is essential. It's important to maintain low lighting to mimic their natural habitat and ensure a gentle current with a moderate filter.

Feeding

Diamond Tetras are omnivorous and enjoy a varied diet. It’s best to provide them with a mix of flakes, pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, and frozen shrimp. Occasional feeding of vegetable matter, algae wafers, and Daphnia can help balance their diet. Use color-enhancing foods to maintain their vibrant scales, and ensure occasional feedings of micro worms, feeder fish, and freeze-dried foods for variety. Stick-on tablets can serve as occasional treats.

Care and Maintenance

These fish are considered to have a low maintenance level, making them suitable for moderately experienced aquarists. Regular water changes are necessary to maintain quality, typically 25% of the water every two weeks. Monitor the water parameters regularly to ensure they stay within the ideal range.

Behavior and Compatibility

Diamond Tetras are mostly peaceful and exhibit mildly territorial behavior. Their social and playful nature makes them compatible with other peaceful species. Avoid housing them with aggressive or significantly larger fish to prevent stress or injury. During breeding, they may become slightly more aggressive.

Breeding

Breeding Diamond Tetras can be a rewarding endeavor but requires specific conditions. A separate breeding tank, set to the recommended pH and temperature, is necessary to prevent interference from other fish. Introduce a group of both males and females into the breeding tank, providing a spawning mop or fine-leaved plants for egg deposition. Feed the prospective breeders a rich diet. After spawning, remove the adults from the breeding tank to protect the eggs. The fry need to be fed infusoria or commercially available liquid fry food initially and can then transition to micro worms or finely crushed high-quality flake food as they grow. Consistent maintenance and monitoring of water quality will ensure the best chances of fry survival.

With patience and proper care, Diamond Tetras can be a stunning and lively addition to any aquarium.