Red Eye Tetra

Red Eye Tetra

The Red Eye Tetra (*Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae*) is a popular freshwater fish known for its vibrant colours and distinctive red eye, making it an attractive addition to community aquariums. This species is particularly appreciated in the aquarium hobby for its active swimming behaviour and peaceful nature.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Red Eye Tetras typically grow to about 5-6 cm (2-2.4 inches) in length.
• Coloration: They are characterised by a translucent silver body adorned with a prominent red spot on their dorsal fin and a striking red eye, which is especially vivid in well-lit tanks.
• Fins: Their fins are relatively small and delicate, with the dorsal fin often exhibiting a hint of red or orange.
• Shape: The body is elongated and laterally compressed, a common trait among tetra species.

Behaviour:

• Temperament: Red Eye Tetras are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of tankmates. They thrive in schools of six or more, which helps reduce stress and encourages natural behaviours.
• Activity Level: They are active swimmers, often seen darting around the tank and interacting with their environment.
• Community Behaviour: These fish can be housed in community tanks, but care should be taken to select peaceful tankmates. Providing plenty of swimming space and hiding spots will help reduce stress and territorial behaviour.

Aquarium Care:

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 40 litres (10 gallons) is recommended for a small school of Red Eye Tetras, though larger tanks are preferable for more stable water conditions.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: Red Eye Tetras thrive in warm water, with an ideal temperature range of 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 78°F).
  • pH: They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, with a general hardness (GH) of 3-10 dGH, is ideal.
• Tank Setup:
  • Substrate and Decorations: A soft substrate is recommended. Red Eye Tetras enjoy a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, as live plants such as Java fern, Amazon sword, and floating plants provide cover and mimic their natural habitat.
  • Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal for showcasing their colours. Floating plants can help diffuse the light and create shaded areas.
  • Filtration: A gentle filtration system is recommended, as strong currents can stress these small fish. Regular water changes (about 20% weekly) are essential for maintaining a clean and healthy environment.

Diet:

Red Eye Tetras are omnivorous and require a varied diet to thrive. Their diet should include:

• Flakes: High-quality flake food formulated for tropical fish should form the staple of their diet.
• Live or Frozen Foods: Offer live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia to provide essential protein and variety.
• Vegetable Matter: Including finely chopped vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, can help ensure a balanced diet.

Tankmates:

Red Eye Tetras can be housed with various peaceful tankmates, including:

• Small Tetras: Such as Neon Tetras or Rummy Nose Tetras.
• Peaceful Rasboras: Like Harlequin Rasboras.
• Bottom-Dwellers: Corydoras catfish or other peaceful bottom-dwellers.

Avoid housing them with aggressive species or fin-nippers, as this can lead to stress or injury.

Breeding:

Breeding Red Eye Tetras can be rewarding and relatively straightforward under the right conditions:

• Breeding Setup: A separate breeding tank with shallow water (about 10-15 cm or 4-6 inches) is ideal. The water should be warm (around 24°C to 26°C or 75°F to 79°F) and slightly acidic (pH 6.0-6.5).
• Spawning Behaviour: The male will court the female, often displaying their colours. After spawning, the eggs will be scattered among the plants and should hatch within 24-36 hours.
• Fry Care: Once the fry are free-swimming, they can be fed with infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp. The parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the fry.

Special Considerations:

• Water Quality: Regular monitoring and maintenance of water quality are crucial for the health of Red Eye Tetras.
• Shy Nature: These fish can be shy, particularly in brightly lit tanks. Providing plenty of hiding spots can help them feel more secure.