Head and tail light tetra Care Guide

The Head and Tail Light Tetra, known for its moderate hardiness, is an ideal choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. These small, social fish thrive in groups, requiring a minimum school size of 6 individuals for optimal well-being. They exhibit a peaceful temperament, displaying mild territorial behavior and semi-aggressive tendencies, particularly during breeding phases.

Tank Setup

To provide a suitable environment for Head and Tail Light Tetras, set up a tank with a capacity that accommodates at least 3 liters of water per fish. They flourish in a temperature range of 22°C to 28°C and a pH between 6 and 7.5. They can grow to a length of 4 to 5 cm and appreciate areas with both surface and mid-tank habitats, offering them various levels to explore and swim freely.

Include plants and hiding spots to establish an enriching, natural setting. Ensure the lighting is dim to mimic their natural habitat and provide a comforting environment.

Feeding

Head and Tail Light Tetras have a diverse diet and will accept a variety of foods. Offer a mix of flakes and pellets as their staple diet. To enhance their coloration and health, supplement this with bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and frozen shrimp. Vegetables, such as small amounts of blanched zucchini or spinach, will provide essential nutrients. Algae wafers, tubifex worms, micro worms, and freeze-dried foods can also be included to offer dietary variety. Stick-on tablets and color-enhancing foods can further promote vibrant colors and nutrient balance.

Care and Maintenance

Maintaining a clean environment with stable water conditions is crucial for the health of Head and Tail Light Tetras. They require a low maintenance level, but regular water changes and checks on filter operation are essential to avoid sudden changes in water parameters as these can be detrimental. Monitor temperature and pH regularly to ensure they remain within optimal ranges. Given their moderate hardiness, they can adapt to a variety of conditions, but consistent maintenance is key to their well-being.

Breeding

Breeding Head and Tail Light Tetras is moderately easy when done under the right conditions. A separate breeding tank with a soft substrate, dim lighting, and plants or spawning mops is necessary to simulate their natural environment. The breeding tank should maintain a pH between 6 and 7.5 and a temperature range of 22°C to 28°C. A group with a higher male-to-female ratio increases the chance of success. Prior to breeding, feed them bloodworms, brine shrimp, and color-enhancing foods to condition them for spawning. Post-spawning, remove parents to protect the eggs, which hatch within 24 to 36 hours.

Care of the Fry

Once hatched, fry require infusoria or liquid fry food initially before transitioning to powdered fry food or baby brine shrimp. Small, frequent water changes with dechlorinated water at the tank's temperature and pH are essential to keeping fry healthy. Gradual acclimatization to the adult tank's conditions is necessary before reintroducing them once they are large enough to avoid being eaten by adults.