Red Eye tetra Care Guide

The Red Eye Tetra is a popular choice among aquarists due to its social nature and moderate hardiness. With a mild aggression level and mild territorial behavior, it can serve well in a community tank environment. These fish exhibit a balance of affordability and beauty, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced hobbyists.

Tank Setup and Water Conditions

Red Eye Tetras thrive in a community tank that mirrors their natural habitat. The tank should be spacious enough to accommodate their active swimming behavior, with a recommended minimum of 2 liters per fish and a school size of at least six individuals. The tank habitat should cater to diverse zones, including surface, mid, and bottom dwellers.

Water quality is critical for the well-being of the Red Eye Tetras. They prefer a water temperature between 23°C to 28°C and a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The water should be soft and well-aerated. Regular water changes and proper filtration will help maintain optimal water conditions.

Feeding

The Red Eye Tetra has a versatile diet, accepting a variety of food types. They should be fed a balanced diet consisting of flakes, pellets, and frozen or freeze-dried foods. Dietary variety can include bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, frozen shrimp, vegetable matter, algae wafers, color enhancing food, daphnia, micro worms, and stick-on tablets. Providing a mixed diet will not only meet their nutritional needs but also bring out vibrant colors.

Behavior and Compatibility

These tetras are mostly peaceful and social, preferring the company of other tetras. They exhibit a schooling behavior, which is both aesthetically pleasing and beneficial for their mental health. While they have low levels of breeding aggression, care should be taken during breeding to separate them from other tank mates.

Maintenance and Care

Red Eye Tetras require a low maintenance level, which makes them ideal for aquarists looking for manageable tank conditions. Despite their relative ease of care, it is essential to monitor water quality regularly and keep the tank clean to avoid any health issues. Regular checks on pH levels and temperature will help maintain a healthy environment for your tetras.

Breeding Considerations

To breed Red Eye Tetras successfully, a dedicated breeding tank is advisable. Conditioning them with high-quality live foods can increase breeding success. The breeding tank should be equipped with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg-laying. After spawning, promptly remove the adults to prevent egg predation. The fry will initially consume their yolk sacs and should then be fed infusoria or liquid fry food, progressing to finely crushed flakes or brine shrimp as they grow.

With the proper setup, care, and attention to detail, Red Eye Tetras can thrive in captivity, bringing joy and beauty to your aquarium for years to come.