Head and Tail-light Tetra

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Scientific Name

Hemigrammus ocellifer

Min. Tank Size

25 gallons

Personality

Peaceful

Temperature

75-82°F

pH

5.5-7.5/0-12°dGH

Size

2"

Diet

Omnivore

Breeding

Egglayer

Compatibility

Most community fish including Livebearers, Danios, Tetras, Corydoras and Rasboras. Tetras can be a bit nippy, so be cautious, or avoid altogether, any long-finned species such as Gouramis, Angelfish and Bettas. Keep in groups of 8 to 10 or more.

Head and Tail-light Tetra

The Head and Tail-light Tetra originates from Peru, Brazil, Surinam, Guyana, and Guiana where it inhabits creeks and tributaries. This species makes a great choice for the general community aquarium. Since the Head and Tail-light Tetra is captive bred in large numbers, it is a very hardy and adaptable species. This makes it an excellent choice for the fishkeeping newcomer. Like most Tetras, this is a shoaling species and should therefore be purchased in groups of no less than six. A group of 10 would be much better and would provide a better display of their shoaling nature.

Tank Set-Up

One option for an aquarium set up would be to mimic their natural habitat by having a sandy substrate, driftwood, and the addition of almond leaves to achieve the tannin-stained water they naturally inhabit. Oak leaves are also acceptable to achieve this effect. Just remember to change the leaves out every 2 to 3 weeks to prevent them from rotting and affecting the water quality. As with most blackwater biotope tanks, fairly dim lighting is recommended to achieve the full effect and mimic the natural habitat. However, since these fish are captive bred on such a mass scale, they are very adaptable and will do equally well in a heavily planted tank.

Feeding

The Head and Tail-light Tetra is not a fussy eater and will except just about anything offered. A varied diet consisting of a high quality flake along with live, frozen and freeze-dried foods, such as blood worms, Daphnia, and brine shrimp is best to ensure optimum health and coloration.

Breeding

Breeding the Head and Tail-light Tetra is relatively easy. The breeding tank should contain Java moss, a spawning mop, or fine-leaved plants to provide a place for the eggs to be deposited. The water should be acidic in the range pH 5.5-6.5 with a temperature of around 80-84°F. Remove the adults after spawning since they will waste no time in eating their own eggs. Eggs normally hatch in approximately 24 to 36 hours.