Red Eye Tetra

• ExerciseHigh

  A busy, energetic swimmer — 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.

• Commitment5–8 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

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

The Red Eye Tetra (Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae) comes from the Paraguay, Paraná and Araguaia basins and reaches about 6 to 7 cm. Its markings are minimal but distinctive: the upper half of the iris is bright red and the caudal peduncle carries a black band edged in yellow. It is one of the hardiest tetras available and tolerates a wide range of conditions. A shoal of six or more needs 120 litres or more at 22-28C, pH 6.0 to 8.0. Feed flake, pellets and frozen daphnia, bloodworm and brine shrimp, with some vegetable content. Two practical notes belong on the label: it is an active, somewhat boisterous fish that will nip long fins, particularly when kept in fewer than six, and it grazes soft plants, so a delicate planted layout is not a good match. In a robust community with barbs, rainbowfish, larger tetras and medium catfish it is an excellent, long-lived and undemanding shoaler that stays interesting to watch.

• How active is a Red Eye Tetra?

  High. A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• How much maintenance does a Red Eye Tetra need?

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

• What tank size does a Red Eye Tetra need?

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

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

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

• How long do Red Eye Tetra live?

  5–8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Red Eye 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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