Diamond Tetra

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• 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.

• Commitment4–6 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Swim bladder disorder

The Diamond Tetra (Moenkhausia pittieri) comes from Lake Valencia and its tributaries in Venezuela and reaches about 6 to 7 cm. Young fish are unremarkable silver; the iridescent scale sparkle that gives the species its name develops over six months to a year, and adult males add long trailing dorsal and anal fins. Buying a shoal of dull juveniles and watching them transform is part of the appeal. A group of six or more needs 100 litres or more at 24-28C, pH 6.0 to 7.5 in soft to moderately hard water, with plants along the sides, wood and open swimming space in the middle. Feed good flake and micro pellets with frozen daphnia, bloodworm and brine shrimp. It is peaceful and active, larger than most community tetras, and works well with dwarf cichlids, corydoras and rasboras. Males display to each other with raised fins, which looks dramatic but is harmless. Keep a mixed-sex group so the display behaviour has somewhere to go.

• How active is a Diamond Tetra?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Diamond Tetra need?

  Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.

• What tank size does a Diamond Tetra need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Diamond Tetra a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Diamond Tetra live?

  4–6 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Diamond 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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