A big silver tetra with red fins and a black diamond at the tail base, tough enough to live in an unheated tank. It is also an enthusiastic eater of plants and of other fish's fins.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Swim bladder disorder
Care at a glance
- ExerciseHigh
A busy, energetic swimmer โ keep plenty of open swimming room.
- GroomingRoutine tank care
Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment5โ8 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Swim bladder disorder
๐ Care guide
The Buenos Aires Tetra (Hyphessobrycon anisitsi) comes from Argentina, Paraguay and southern Brazil and reaches about 7 to 8 cm, one of the largest common tetras. Its southern range makes it tolerant of cool water, doing well from about 18 to 28C, and it is among the hardiest fish in the hobby. A shoal of six or more needs 150 litres or more, pH 6.0 to 8.0, in almost any reasonable water, with open swimming space. Feed flake, pellets and frozen foods plus deliberate vegetable content, because otherwise it will find its own: this species eats soft aquarium plants down to the stems, and a planted tank is not compatible with it. The second honest point is fin-nipping, which is real and worst in small groups, so keep at least six and avoid angelfish, guppies and bettas as tankmates. Given a large, robustly stocked tank with hardy plants such as anubias or java fern, it is an attractive, active and almost indestructible fish that suits a cool room.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Buenos Aires Tetra?
High. A busy, energetic swimmer โ keep plenty of open swimming room.
How much maintenance does a Buenos Aires Tetra need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Buenos Aires Tetra need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Buenos Aires Tetra a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Buenos Aires Tetra live?
5โ8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Buenos Aires Tetra?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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