Glowlight Tetra

Glowlight Tetra

The Glowlight Tetra (Hemigrammus erythrozonus) is a popular and hardy freshwater species, admired for its glowing orange-red stripe that appears especially vivid under subdued lighting. Native to South America, this peaceful shoaling fish is an excellent choice for planted and soft water community aquariums.

Physical Characteristics:

Size: Glowlight Tetras typically grow to around 4–5 cm (1.5–2 inches) in length.
Coloration:
Body: Transparent silver body with a bright iridescent orange to red stripe running from the snout to the base of the tail.
Fins: Mostly clear to slightly silver, with subtle hints of the stripe colour on the dorsal fin.
Shape: Slender and streamlined body, typical of small tetra species.

Behaviour:

Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive, making them ideal for community aquariums.
Activity Level: Active swimmers, especially when kept in groups.
Community Behaviour: A schooling species that should be kept in groups of at least 5–8 or more to display natural behaviour and maximise visual effect.

Aquarium Care:

Tank Size: A minimum of 60 litres is recommended for a small group, with larger tanks preferred.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F)
pH: 6.0 to 7.5
Hardness: 6–15 dGH (softer water preferred for breeding)
Tank Setup:
Substrate and Decorations: A planted aquarium with driftwood, rocks, and shaded areas to replicate natural habitats.
Lighting: Dim to moderate lighting enhances their glowing stripe and reduces stress.
Filtration: Gentle filtration with stable water conditions is ideal.

Diet:

Glowlight Tetras are omnivores and accept a wide range of foods:
Flakes or Pellets: High-quality flake or micro pellet food as a staple.
Live or Frozen Foods: Brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and tubifex.
Variety: A varied diet helps maintain health and enhance colouration.
Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions.

Tankmates:

Ideal for peaceful community aquariums:
Compatible with other small tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and peaceful dwarf species.
Avoid aggressive or significantly larger fish that may cause stress.

Breeding:

Breeding Setup: A separate tank with very soft, slightly acidic water and low lighting.
Spawning Behaviour: Egg scatterers that lay eggs among fine-leaved plants or spawning media.
Egg Care: Adults should be removed after spawning as they will consume the eggs.
Fry Care: Eggs hatch within approximately 24–30 hours, and fry should be fed infusoria before progressing to larger foods.

Special Considerations:

Lighting Conditions: Colours are most vibrant under dim lighting with a dark substrate.
Water Stability: Thrives in stable, slightly acidic conditions.
Schooling Requirement: Keeping them in groups enhances both behaviour and visual impact.
Environment: A planted tank with hiding spaces promotes natural behaviour and reduces stress.