A silver torpedo with a blazing red nose and a black-and-white striped tail. Rummy-noses form the tightest schools in the hobby — and their red faces reveal water quality.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Skin conditions
- Swim bladder disorder
Care at a glance
- ExerciseModerate
An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
- GroomingEasy tank upkeep
No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment5–6 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Skin conditions
📖 Care guide
The rummy-nose tetra (Hemigrammus rhodostomus and its close relatives) inhabits the blackwater rivers of the lower Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. It grows to about 4–5 cm and lives 5–6 years. Its most useful trait for keepers is that its bright red nose fades when water quality drops, acting as a living water-test. Rummy-noses are among the most tightly schooling of all aquarium fish and should be kept in groups of eight or more in a tank of 75 litres or larger. Recreate their soft blackwater home at 24–27°C with a pH of 5.5–6.5, dark substrate, driftwood and dense planting. They are sensitive to ammonia and nitrate, so a fully cycled, stable tank is essential. These omnivores eat fine flake, micro-pellets and small frozen foods like daphnia and bloodworm. Peaceful and elegant, they are perfect for calm community and planted tanks alongside other small, gentle species. Their sensitivity to water quality makes ich and stress-related infections their main risks; frequent water changes and stable, soft water keep their red noses glowing.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Rummy-Nose Tetra?
Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
How much maintenance does a Rummy-Nose Tetra need?
Easy tank upkeep. No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.
What tank size does a Rummy-Nose Tetra need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Rummy-Nose Tetra a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Rummy-Nose Tetra live?
5–6 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Rummy-Nose Tetra?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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