Photo: Norbert Heidbüchel
Data sheet red-headed tetra
Trade name:
Red-headed tetra, Bleher’s red-headed tetra
Scientific name:
Hemigrammus bleheri, Petitella bleheri
Order:
Tetras, Characiformes
Family:
True tetras, Characidae
Genus:
hemigrammus
Origin:
Colombia, northeastern Brazil, Amazon region, predominantly in black water, often found in tributaries to white water, prefers oxbow lakes and small streams
Size:
4.5 to 6 cm
Aquarium
Length:
80x40x40cm
Contents:
Aquariums with a water content of at least 120 liters are sufficient
water values
Temperature:
In the temperature range of 24 to 28 °C, the animals develop their color optimally
PH value:
A pH value of 5.5 to 7 is ideal, slightly acidic water intensifies the color intensity of the red head, the water hardness should be in the range of soft water, around 5 to 8° GH. Red-headed tetras are sensitive to high nitrate levels
Behave
Behave:
The red-headed tetra is a schooling fish that feels at home in groups of 10 or more animals
Lining:
Live food such as water fleas, mosquito larvae or Tubifex, frozen food and dry food. Overfeeding quickly leads to overeating
Socialization with shrimp possible:
Red-headed tetras prefer the middle layers of the water, shrimp living on the bottom are ignored
Difficulty level:
Red-headed tetras are in the medium range.
Sources
are red-headed tetras heat-loving schooling fish, which populate smaller watercourses in the black water area of the jungle in their native South America. They feel particularly at home in the mouths of white water inlets.
This also explains the relatively high tolerance range with regard to the pH value, slightly acidic water increases the color intensity of the typical red head. If the values, temperatures or well-being are not correct, the red fades and makes it necessary to check the values.
The behavior of the animals is best shown in large aquariums not less than 80 cm in length and with a swimming area. Important are dark areas in the tank and a quiet location.
gender differences
The distinction is only possible based on the slimmer shape of the males, there are no clues in the color or pattern. The females can be recognized by the spawning approach and the associated fullness.
breed
It is important to have soft water between 3 and 5° GH and a pH value of no more than 6, better still a little below. In a separate basin, which should be about 50 cm long, place a flat layer of gravel and some stem plants tied in bunches.
Females that are ready to spawn can be easily identified by their size. If the temperature is increased by a further 2 to 3 °C, the act of spawning begins.
After spawning, the parents are removed promptly to prevent the brood from being eaten. The tank should be quiet and not too bright, morning light encourages spawning.
rearing
The young hatch after about two days, the larval stage lasts another two to four days, until then the animals feed on their yolk sac. When the first young begin to swim freely, they need dust lining like paramecia.
It is advisable to have these ready from a haystack. Once this difficult phase has been overcome, after three to four weeks the young will take larger feed animals such as Artemia nauplii. Dry food can also be given.
The further rearing of the fast-growing young animals is problem-free.
socialization
The peaceful red-headed tetras can be socialized with other tetras or barbels. Dwarf cichlids, finfish and armored catfish are also well suited for stocking, larger perch such as Angelfish worry redhead tetras and caused escape reflexes.
Experience has shown that there are no problems with discus fish, as they are calm and peaceful themselves.
Other questions about keeping red-headed tetras
What does a suitable aquarium design for these tetras look like?
Sufficient space to develop swarm behavior and a substrate that is not too light meet the needs. Caution: The tetras are quickly frightened and jump. One dense coverage or glass pane prevents it from jumping out.
My red-headed tetras look pale and jumpy, what to do?
A free area for swimming and a few dark areas under roots or plants as a retreat area promote natural behavior. If the temperature is too low, the animals appear pale, at around 26 °C the color comes back.
Is the pH and hardness of the water correct? Regular partial water change revitalizes the animals, the water should be filtered clear.
Is it normal for the fish to flee when you get too close?
When approaching the aquarium, the animals react to fast movements by fleeing, especially at the beginning. Please never knock on the window or work frantically on the pool.
How old can redhead tetras get?
With good care, the animals can live up to eight years.
See the Diseases section for more information.
Red-headed Tetra Video: