A silver fish with one black band that runs down the side, turns at the tail and continues into the lower tail lobe. It hangs at a permanent nose-up angle, which is exactly how it should look.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Swim bladder disorder
Care at a glance
- 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.
- Commitment4โ6 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Swim bladder disorder
๐ Care guide
The Penguin Tetra (Thayeria boehlkei) comes from the Amazon basin and reaches about 6 to 7 cm. Its black stripe makes an unmistakable hooked shape as it drops into the lower lobe of the tail, and the fish naturally rests at an oblique head-up angle, which new keepers sometimes mistake for a swim bladder problem. A steady angled hover is normal; struggling, spiralling or floating is not. A shoal of eight or more needs 100 litres or more at 22-28C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, in a tank with open swimming space, planting at the sides and a secure lid, since it is an accomplished jumper. Feed flake, micro pellets and frozen daphnia, bloodworm and brine shrimp. It is hardy, active and long-lived, but it is a busy fish that can nip long fins when kept in small numbers, so a group of eight or more and tankmates without trailing fins are the sensible choices. It suits a lively community with barbs, rainbowfish and larger tetras.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Penguin Tetra?
Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
How much maintenance does a Penguin Tetra need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Penguin Tetra need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Penguin Tetra a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Penguin Tetra live?
4โ6 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Penguin 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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