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Gymnocorymbus ternetzi (Black Widow Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:34:41 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Black Widow Tetra prefers the river basin in South America, namely the Rio Negro and Rio Paraguay in Southern Brazil.

PH: 7.0 pH

Temperature: 23 – 27 °C (73 – 81°F)

Hardness: 15 gdH

Description: A peaceful, active and usually showy tetra, Gymnocorymbus ternetzi should be kept in shoals of 6 or more. They are not always the friendly towards their own, but will happy co-inhabit a tank with short-finned species. They may occasionally pick on one another – typical of tetras – however this will rarely result in serious harm.

Growing a maximum length of around 6cm, the colouration is most interesting. Despite a natural propensity to silver and golden hued scales with a black ridge, artificial colouring is becoming more popular, resulting in pastel blues and pinks. These fish should be avoided, despite their prettiness. Gymnocorymbus ternetzi are identifiable by their long, curved anal fin (occasionally the half the length of the body) and dorsal fins – all black. They also display vertical stripes longitudinally, also black. Sex difference can be ascertained through body size (female will be bigger) and through the anal fins (run a finger down the fin: there are microscopic hooks that cannot be seen by the naked eye). Colours will vary according to mood, light levels and health. Your Black Widow Tetra will slowly fade to a silver-gray as it ages.

Diet: Gymnocorymbus ternetzi are extremely easy to feed as they will happily eat anything. A flake-based diet supplemented with live foods (e.g. brine shrimp) will satisfy them.

Breeding: The Black Widow Tetra is exceptionally easy to breed. Set up a breeding tank complete with fine-leaf plants. The parents will eat the eggs, so either remove them immediately after spawning or utilise a type of grid on the bottom so the eggs are unreachable. The fry will hatch in a day and can be fed on baby brine, egg yolk or very fine flakes.

Comments: The ease of maintenance, breeding and feeding makes this an ideal fish for an aquarist of any level. They are extremely hardy.

Gymnocorymbus ternetzi need a tank of at least 100L with plantation. They may jump, especially at breeding times or during water changes, so set up the tank so there is a large space between the cover and the water surface.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: It is best to avoid housing Gymnocorymbus ternetzi with gouramis and other long-finned fish (they’re fin-nippers). They should live happily with Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy, they also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-17 21:17:10. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus ora

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:34:37 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: French Guiana is the location of Hemigrammus ora. They prefer swampy area near the surface of the water.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2-15 gdH

Description: Hemigrammus ora will grow to a little below 4cm within captivity.

Hemigrammus species is usually peaceful and sociable. They thrive in shoals of at least 6-8 and are generally ideal additions to community tanks.

Diet: Try your Hemigrammus ora on an omnivorous diet consisting of both flakes and live foods such as brine shrimp and insect larvae.

Breeding: Information regarding the general method of breeding the Hemigrammus species has been utilised, as Hemigrammus ora is relatively unknown within the hobby.

A pair of Hemigrammus ora of at least one year of age should be separated (from both the shoal and from one another) and conditioned on insect larvae. Set up a breeding tank that has dense plantation, no artificial light, peat-filtered water and a slightly higher temperature. If the pair do not spawn within three days of being introduced into the breeding tank, repeat the process. If it still fails, try swapping one of the partners.

Once the parents-to-be have spawned, remove them from the tank as they are carnivorous and will consume the eggs. Once the fry have hatched, they can be fed on small particles of foods such as Infusoria, baby Brine Shrimp, micro-organisms, and flake foods, amongst others.

Breeding results will generally be quite high, if their natural pattern is anything to go by: in the wild, they can double their original population in a little over a year.

Comments: A 40L tank is suitable for keeping a shoal of Hemigrammus ora; whereas you will need to double it if keeping a community tank. Dense plantation around the sides and back is required, and some top floating plants to diffuse the lights; as is an open area in the middle for plenty of swimming space. A dark substrate will flaunt the colours of your Hemigrammus ora.

The Hemigrammus species is a fairly hardy one, and thus is suitable for an aquarist of any experience level.

Hemigrammus ora is relatively unknown within the hobby; therefore there is a scarcity of information. Subsequently, general information regarding the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami(such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-20 14:52:48. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus newboldi

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:34:36 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The South American Orinoco River basin is the place of origin for Hemigrammus newboldi.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2-15 gdH

Description: Hemigrammus newboldi will reach a length of 5cm. Unlike many of the Hemigrammus species, Hemigrammus newboldi doesn’t have an elongated, slim body. They are reflective, generally silver, and will mirror the colours around them. The caudal tail has a black splodge at the base; whilst the rest of the fins are transparent.

Hemigrammus species is usually peaceful and sociable. They thrive in shoals of at least 6-8 and are generally ideal additions to community tanks.

Diet: An omnivorous diet would suit Hemigrammus newboldi. Use flakes as a base and supplement it with live foods such as brine shrimp and insect larvae.

Breeding: Due to their uncommonness within the hobby, there is limited information available regarding the breeding Hemigrammus neptunus; therefore, the general method accepted for the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Breeders should separate a male and female Hemigrammus neptunus from both the shoal and from one another. These two fish should be around one year old. Condition them on insect larvae. A breeding tank consisting of peat-filtered water, dense plantation, natural lighting (only) and a slightly higher temperature should be set up. Introduce the duo into the breeding tank. If spawning does not occur within three days, repeat the process. If it fails a second time, try switching one of the partners.

The parents should be removed once they’ve spawned because they are carnivorous and will eat the eggs. The newly-hatched fry should be fed on very small food particles such as Infusoria, micro-organisms, baby brine shrimp and flake foods.

Breeding results will generally be quite high, if their natural pattern is anything to go by: in the wild, they can double their original population in a little over a year.

Comments: A shoal of Hemigrammus neptunus can be kept by themselves in a 40L tank. However, a community tank will need to be at least double the size. Dense plantation along the sides and back is required, as well as a large open space in the centre for swimming space. If wanting to show off the colouration to its finest, use a dark substrate. Top floating plants should also be included in order to diffuse the light.

The Hemigrammus species is a fairly hardy one, and thus is suitable for an aquarist of any experience level.

Hemigrammus neptunus is unusual in the hobby, there is a scarcity of information. Subsequently, general information regarding the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-20 14:41:50. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus schmardae

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:34:35 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Amazon, Negro and Orinoco River basins in South America is where Hemigrammus schmardae hails from.

PH: 6.5 – 7.0 pH

Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)

Hardness: 5 – 8 dH

Description: Hemigrammus schmardae will grow to just under 4cm in captivity. The Hemigrammus species is normally sociable, peaceful and will be an ideal addition to any community tank consisting of non-aggressive species. They will thrive in shoals of at least 6-8.

Hemigrammus schmardae are fairly uncommon in the hobby and therefore information such social habits, sexual dimorphia, and appearance is unavailable.

Diet: A relatively easy fish to feed, Hemigrammus schmardae enjoys an omnivorous diet of both flakes or pellets, as well as live or frozen foods such as blood worms, insect larvae and brine shrimp.

Breeding: Due to their uncommonness within the hobby, there is limited information available regarding breeding Hemigrammus schmardae; therefore, the general method accepted for the Hemigrammus species has been included.

A pair of Hemigrammus schmardae of at least one year of age should be separated (from both the shoal and from one another) and conditioned on insect larvae. Set up a breeding tank that has dense plantation, no artificial light, peat-filtered water and a slightly higher temperature. If the pair do not spawn within three days of being introduced into the breeding tank, repeat the process. If it still fails, try swapping one of the partners.

Comments: A shoal of Hemigrammus schmardae can be kept by themselves in a 40L tank. However, if you’re aiming for a community tank, you will need at least double the size. Dense plantation along the sides and back is required, as well as a large open space in the centre for swimming space. If wanting to show off the colouration to its finest, use a dark substrate. Top floating plants should also be included in order to diffuse the light.

The Hemigrammus species is a fairly hardy one, and thus is suitable for an aquarist of any experience level.

As Hemigrammus schmardae is fairly uncommon within the hobby, general information pertaining to the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-20 15:08:41. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hasemania nana (Silver Tip Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:34:33 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Located in South America, Hasemania nana prefers the smaller water streams found in Rio Purus and Rio San Francisco, Brazil.

PH: 6 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 23 – 27 °C (73 – 81°F)

Hardness: 5 – 20 dH

Description: The Silver Tip Tetra can be quite aggressive if kept in groups less than 6. It is also recommended to have larger fish in a community tank. They are active, lively fish that enjoy swimming against a somewhat strong current (impersonating their natural habitat).

The Hasemania nana can grow up to 5cm and will display a yellow to gray body colour. Their heads are silver-white, the fins have a yellow hue, and the rear fins display a silver tip (hence their name). The males tend to have brighter colouration which is often gold, whilst females may have a yellow (rather than white or silver) tip on their anal fin.

Diet: Hasemania nana are omnivorous and will thrive on a diet consisting of both flake food and live foods.

Breeding: Although it can be difficult to breed the Silver Top Tetra – owing to their aggressiveness when not kept in large groups – it is possible. Use a large tank for breeding with marbles or mesh netting for the eggs to fall below. The parents are cannibalistic. Lower the pH to 5.5 – 6.5 and the water hardness to 2 – 5 dH (keep the temperature steady). The eggs will hatch within two days and the fry can be fed on finely crushed flake or live food.

Comments: Despite their aggressiveness, the Silver Tip Tetra may be kept by anyone from an enthusiastic beginner to an expert. They can provide much movement and colour to a community tank.

Set them up in a large (200L) tank with some plants around the sides. Floating plants will help to emulate their natural habitat and to diffuse the light. They require plenty of room to swim around in.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-17 21:33:58. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon elachys

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:34:31 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Paraguay River basin in Paraguay, South America is where Hyphessobrycon elachys choses to make its home. Reports also suggest it can be found somewhere in Brazil.

PH: 6.5 – 7.0 pH

Temperature: 24 – 27°C (75 – 81°F)

Hardness: 5 – 8 dH

Description: Like its Hyphessobrycon relatives, Hyphessobrycon elachys is a peaceful, calm, shoaling fish who does well in community tanks. It is also lively, adding streaks of colour and action to any dull tank.

Hyphessobrycon elachys will grow to around 5cm in length.

Diet: Although flakes and pellets will be accepted by Hyphessobrycon elachys, they require a high live food content in their diet. This can be supplemented by frozen food most of the time (with live as an occasional treat).

Breeding: There is little information available regarding breeding methodology for Hyphessobrycon elachys, so the general method used for the family has been included.

Transfer a year-old male and a year-old female to separate conditioning tanks. Use insect larvae and Drosophila to condition the duo for two-to-three weeks, before introducing them to one another in a breeding tank (at least 40L). The breeding tank should have many fine-leaved plants and a soft filtration system, but do not use substrate. Use water with a pH of 5.5 – 6.5, a dH of 2 – 4, and a temperature of 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F). It is unknown if the eggs are light-sensitive, so it is best to keep them out of direct sunlight just in case.

It should take three days for the pair to spawn. If no eggs appear, recondition them. The eggs will appear in the leaves of the plants and the parents should be removed immediately after spawning (cannibalistic). A little over twenty-four hours after being laid, the eggs will hatch. The fry will appear few days later and should be fed on an initial diet of micro-organisms and baby Brine, and crushed flake ten days later.

The eggs and fry require partial water changes on a weekly basis as they are susceptible to illness in poor water conditions.

Comments: Plantation is key to establishing a tank for your Hyphessobrycon elachys: the sides and back should have dense plantation, and floating plants should be utilised to dim the lighting. They will enjoy a large area of free swimming space in the middle of the tank; as well as a slow to moderate current.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:10:02. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus parana

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:34:24 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hemigrammus parana is found in Brazil, South America. Specifically, the upper upper Paraná, the Grande, Paranaíba, and São Jose dos Dourados River systems.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2-15 gdH

Description: One of the smaller Hemigrammus species, Hemigrammus parana will only hit around 3cm. It can be differentiated from the rest of the Hemigrammus species through its lack of a humeral spot. Instead, it has a large black spot on its caudal fin that extends from the base to the top in the middle of the rays. It does appear remarkably similar to Hemigrammus levis; aside from more rays on the caudal fin and the longitudinal band without an area of reflective scales anteriorly.

Hemigrammus species is usually peaceful and sociable. They thrive in shoals of at least 6-8 and are generally ideal additions to community tanks.

Diet: Use an omnivorous diet for your Hemigrammus parana; flakes will be a suitable base and supplement it with live foods such as insect larvae and brine shrimp.

Breeding: Information regarding the general method of breeding the Hemigrammus species has been utilised, as Hemigrammus parana is unusual within the hobby.

Breeders should separate a male and female Hemigrammus parana from both the shoal and from one another. These two fish should be around one year old. Condition them on insect larvae. A breeding tank consisting of peat-filtered water, dense plantation, natural lighting (only) and a slightly higher temperature should be set up. Introduce the duo into the breeding tank. If spawning does not occur within three days, repeat the process. If it fails a second time, try switching one of the partners.

Breeding results will generally be quite high, if their natural pattern is anything to go by: in the wild, they can double their original population in a little over a year.

Comments: A 40L tank is suitable to keep a shoal of Hemigrammus parana alone; however, you will need to double the size if keeping in a community tank. It will require heavy plantation along the sides and back, as well as an open swimming area in the middle. If wanting to show off the colouration to its finest, use a dark substrate. Top floating plants should also be included in order to diffuse the light.

The Hemigrammus species is a fairly hardy one, and thus is suitable for an aquarist of any experience level.

Hemigrammus parana is unusual in the hobby, there is a scarcity of information. Subsequently, general information regarding the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-20 14:56:14. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus rodwayi (Gold Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:34:20 +0000

Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-05 03:41:17. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon guarani

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:34:05 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon guarani makes its home in the Upper Paraná River basin of South America.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 23 – 28°C (74 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: This fish will grow to around 3cm. There is little known about it, but the Hyphessobrycon family is generally peaceful, non-territorial and make active and eye-catching members of community tanks.

Diet: The omnivorous diet suits Hyphessobrycon species and there’s no indication this specific fish is any different. Ensure that quality flake foods are the staple of the diet, and use frozen or live foods as treats once or twice a week.

Breeding: Due to the rarity of this fish in captivity, the difficulty levels are unknown. It is suggested that the general breeding method of the family is used.

Separate a year-old female and a year-old male into two conditioning tanks. They should be fed with insect larvae and Drosophila for two-to-three weeks, when they can then be introduced into a breeding tank. For the smaller species, a 38L tank is sufficient size.

The breeding tank should have a temperature of 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F), a pH of 5.5 – 6.5, and dH of 2 – 4. It must be kept consistently clean and in the dark. It does not require any substrate, simply some fine-leaved plants and soft filtration (such as a foam or sponge).

The pair should spawn within three days – if not, repeat the process. Hypessobrycon guarani spawn into the leaves of the plants and should be removed immediately after the eggs are laid. The eggs will hatch within 2 days, and the fry will be free-swimming a few days after that. The fry can be fed on micro-organisms and baby Brine Shrimp for the first ten days, and then on crushed flake foods. The water should be changed weekly, but only partially.

Comments: There is very little information available on Hyphessobrycon guarani; therefore information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon family has been included.

If this species is anything like its relatives, it will be easy to maintain and care fore, making it suitable for an aquarist of any experience level.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:37:18. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus levis

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:33:47 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hemigrammus levis makes it home in the Amazon River basin in South America.

PH: 5.5 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 24 – 28°C (74 – 82°F)

Hardness: 7 gdH

Description: Growing a length of 4-5cm, Hemigrammus levis is rather unusual within the hobby and therefore there is very little information available on it. It is quite probable that it will display a similar temperament to the rest of the Hemigrammus species: active, lively, and peaceful. If this is true, it will be perfectly suited to a community tank of other non-aggressive types.

Diet: Due to the rarity of Hemigrammus levis in captivity, it is unknown what diet they prefer. A general Hemigrammus diet should be used – flakes and live foods.

Breeding: Due to the fact Hemigrammus levis is generally undocumented within captivity, breeding information is unknown.

Comments: As Hemigrammus levis is unusual in the hobby, there is a scarcity of information. Subsequently, general information regarding the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-20 14:10:29. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon melazonatus

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:33:44 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Amazon River basin in South America is where Hyphessobrycon melazonatus calls home.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82 °F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Hyphessobrycon melazonatus will reach a maximum length just short of 4cm. This species is generally peaceful, active and non-aggressive. They are good additions to any community or species-specific tank. They will thrive when kept in groups no less than six.

Hyphessobrycon melazonatus are rare in the hobby and therefore there is a lack of data such as colouration and specific social behaviours.

Diet: The Hyphessobrycon species thrive on omnivorous diets. Your Hyphessobrycon melazonatus will enjoy a diet that is primarily flakes or pellets with occasional live foods as treats.

Breeding: Due to its rarity, successful captivity-bred reports have yet to be unearthed. If you manage to find a pair and want to try it yourself, it is suggested you follow the general Hyphessobrycon method.

First separate a male and a female (at least a year old) into two conditioning tanks. Feed them live foods such as blood worms and insect larvae for about three weeks before introducing them into the breeding tank. They should breed within 24 hours, but give them three days and, if no eggs appear, repeat the conditioning process.

Remove the parents once they have spawned or you may find they’ve eaten all the eggs. They will hatch after 24 hours and the subsequent free-swimming fry should be fed Infusoria. Once they are big enough, start them on baby brine shrimp.

As it is unknown whether the eggs of the Hyphessobrycon melazonatus are light-sensitive or not, you should err on the side of caution and keep them in as much dark as possible.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon melazonatus is uncommon in the hobby and therefore there is limited information available. Consequently, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species in general has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 07:40:32. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon hamatus

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:33:32 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon hamatus can be found in two tributaries branching off of the Vermelho River in Brazil, South America. This area is found in the Tocantins River basin.

PH: 6 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 23 – 28°C (73 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Hyphessobrycon hamatus appears identical to two other relatives: Hyphessobrycon socolofi and Hyphessobrycon erthrostigma. Thus, it is a semi-transparent variety of Tetra, with a faint red stripe extending from head to caudal fins. Whilst it has similar dorsal, anal, pectoral and pelvic fin colouration, Hyphessobrycon hamatus also has hooks on these fins. This species also lacks the large spot on the dorsal fin.

They will reach a length of 4.5cm in the tank. As they are rare, it is unknown what behavioural characteristics are present. It can be probably be assumed that they are generally peaceful and active, although may display some aggression if housed in a tank that is too small.

Diet: Use a typical omnivorous diet for your Hyphessobrycon hamatus: quality flakes and pellets as the staple, with occasional live foods as treats.

Breeding: As there is limited information available regarding the specifics of Hyphessobrycon hamatus, the general method pertaining to the family is included.

Two conditioning tanks should be established to house a one-year-old male and a one-year-old female. These should be conditioned on Drosophila and insect larvae for two-to-three weeks, before the duo can be introduced into a 38L breeding tank. To set up a breeding tank, include many fine-leaved plants and a soft filtration system, but do not use substrate. Use water with a pH of 5.5 – 6.5, a dH of 2 – 4, and a temperature of 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F). It is unknown if the eggs are light-sensitive, so it is best to keep them out of direct sunlight just in case.

It should take three days for the pair to spawn. If no eggs appear, recondition them. The eggs will appear in the leaves of the plants and the parents should be removed immediately after spawning as they are cannibalistic. A little over twenty-four hours after being laid, the eggs will hatch. The fry will appear few days later and should be fed on an initial diet of micro-organisms and baby Brine, and crushed flake ten days later.

The eggs and fry require weekly, partial water changes as they are susceptible to illness in poor water conditions.

Comments: Due to their scarcity, there is not a lot of data available on Hyphessobrycon hamatus. For these reasons, general information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon family has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:38:50. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus mimus

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:33:31 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The South American region that includes the middle Negro and Amazon basins as well as the upper Orinoco River basin is where Hemigrammus mimus makes its home.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2-15 gdH

Description: The Hemigrammus species is usually peaceful and sociable. They thrive in shoals of at least 6-8 and are generally ideal additions to community tanks. Hemigrammus mimus will grow to only 2.8cm in captivity, making it one of the smallest of the Hemigrammus species.

Hemigrammus mimus are fairly uncommon in the hobby and therefore information such social habits, sexual dimorphia, and appearance is unavailable.

Diet: Hemigrammus mimus will enjoy an omnivorous diet of flakes and live foods such as brine shrimp and Tubifex. Cut up the food so that it can fit the small mouths of the species.

Breeding: Due to their uncommonness within the hobby, there is limited information available regarding breeding Hemigrammus mimus; therefore, the general method accepted for the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Breeders should separate a male and female Hemigrammus mimus from both the shoal and from one another. These two fish should be around one year old. Condition them on insect larvae. A breeding tank consisting of peat-filtered water, dense plantation, natural lighting (only) and a slightly higher temperature should be set up. Introduce the duo into the breeding tank. If spawning does not occur within three days, repeat the process. If it fails a second time, try switching one of the partners.

Breeding results will generally be quite high, if their natural pattern is anything to go by: in the wild, they can double their original population in a little over a year.

Comments: A shoal of Hemigrammus mimus can be kept by themselves in a 40L tank. However, a community tank will need to be at least double the size. Dense plantation along the sides and back is required, as well as a large open space in the centre for swimming space. If wanting to show off the colouration to its finest, use a dark substrate. Top floating plants should also be included in order to diffuse the light.

The Hemigrammus species is a fairly hardy one, and thus is suitable for an aquarist of any experience level.

Hemigrammus mimus is unusual in the hobby, there is a scarcity of information. Subsequently, general information regarding the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-20 14:36:24. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Trigonostigma heteromorpha (Harlequin Rasbora/Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:33:24 +0000

Family: Cyprinidae

Distribution: Trigonostigma heteromorpha, commonly known as the Harlequin Rasbora, is found in Thailand, Sumatra, Singapore and Malaysia. It is distributed in streams and other forest swamp waters.

PH: 5.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 23°C – 28C (73 – 82F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Trigonostigma heteromorpha can reach a length of 3 – 5 cm in an aquarium. This species has an orange-pink colouration from its head to the caudal peduncle. Its posterior half has a big triangular marking that begins below the midpoint of its dorsal fin and thins out towards its tail. Its dorsal, caudal, pelvic and anal fins are tinted a reddish colour and the caudal fin is forked. Males are thinner and have a brighter colouration to females. This species has a lifespan of approximately six years.

Diet: Trigonostigma heteromorpha is an omnivore and will eat most store-purchased foods, but you should feed it a varied diet that includes live and frozen foods.

Breeding: The Harlequin Rasbora is similar to the Glowlight Rasbora in that females will attach their eggs to broad leaves, as opposed to the usual Rasbora practice of scattering the eggs. The female can deposit up to 300 eggs, but it is usually around the 80 – 100 mark. Remove the parents as soon as you see the eggs on the underside of a plant leaf, as they exhibit no parental care and may eat the eggs. When spawning Trigonostigma heteromorpha, make sure the water is soft and acidic and that you maintain the given water parameters. The eggs will hatch in 24 hours and the fry can be fed powdered fry food or Infusoria until large enough to accept bigger foods such as flake.

Comments: Trigonostigma heteromorpha should be housed in a tank that is at least 40 litres in volume. This fish will prefer a heavily vegetated tank that resembles its natural environment, including floating plants, a dark substrate and several roots and branches. It is recommended your tank is dimly lit and that you provide plenty of open swimming space. While it is not essential, Trigonostigma heteromorpha has a preference for water that has been filtrated through peat. This species requires a moderate level of care and is probably not suitable for beginners.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Trigonostigma heteromorpha should be kept in large groups of at least 8 – 10. They will live happily with Tetraspecies (particularly the Neon Tetraand Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbaiand Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppyand Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-26 22:14:23. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon ecuadorensis (Columbian Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:33:21 +0000

Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-09 02:50:57. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon flammeus (Flame Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:33:19 +0000

Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-05 03:59:08. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon columbianus (Columbian Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:33:10 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Columbian Tetra (also known as Blue-Red Columbian Tetra and Blue Flame Tetra) derives one of its common names from its location: it is endemic to Colombia, South America. It prefers the slow moving tributaries and creeks that extend off the Acandi River.

PH: 5.5 – 7.0 pH

Temperature: 24 – 27°C (75 – 81°F)

Hardness: 12 gdH

Description: Like many of its Hyphessobrycon relatives, the Columbian Tetra is a lively tank mate. It will flourish in groups of at least 6, but they can be aggressive and nip the fins of each other. They are one of the larger Tetras, reaching 6.5cm.

The Hyphessobrycon columbianus has a silver-grey colouration, with a lateral line of a blue tinge that increases in vibrancy as it extends upwards. The line develops into a stripe along the rear dorsal area of the Blue Flame’s body. This fish flaunts bright red fins that will – interestingly – lose colour when the fish is resting. A black edging defines the anal fin, and the dorsal and caudal fins sport white tips.

As the fish matures, the back arch appears to grow. It is difficult to determine gender until the species is mature, when the female will become rounder.

Diet: A non-fussy eater, the Columbian Tetra will enjoy a balance flake food, frozen food, and live foods. Use high quality flakes as the base of the diet, and add the live and frozen foods later. They prefer brine shrimp and white and blood worms.

Breeding: Set up two conditioning tanks, one for a year old male and one for a year old female. The two Hyphessobrycon columbianus should be fed on a diet of Drosophila and insect larvae for two-to-three weeks, before moving them into a 38L breeding tank. The tank should have a temperature of 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F), a pH of 6.5, and dH of 2 – 4. Partial weekly water changes are a must. Do not use any form of substrate, just fine-leaved plants and a soft filtration system (sponge or foam). The Columbian Tetra also require dim lighting.

If eggs do not appear within three days of the introduction, repeat the process of conditioning. When spawning, eggs will appear in the plant leaves. The parents will eat the eggs, so they should be removed immediately after spawning. A little over 24 hours later, the eggs will hatch, with the fry swimming free a few days later. A diet of baby Brine Shrimp and micro-organisms should be used for the first ten days, before switching your Tetra fry to crushed flake.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon columbianus are perfect for beginners are they are hardy and can withstand a range of water conditions. They prefer planted tanks to sparse ones, and require a volume of 80-120L.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 01:47:23. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Copeina guttata (Red-Spotted Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:33:08 +0000

Family: Lebiasinidae

Distribution: Copeina guttata, or Red-Spotted Tetra, is a South American freshwater species distributed in the streams and rivers of the middle Amazon River basin.

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 23°C – 28°C (73 – 82F)

Hardness: 8 – 12 dH

Description: Copeina guttata can grow a maximum of 8 cm in a tank environment, although they have been recorded as reaching 15 cm in the wild. The Red-Spotted tetra has a green-brown colouration on its dorsal region – which gets darker at the flanks – and a light-yellow ventral surface colouration. It is named the Red-Spotted Tetra due to a red marking on each large scale. This species can live anywhere from 3 – 8 years.

Diet: Copeina guttata is omnivorous and will accept a varied diet of fish flakes, pellets, frozen foods and vegetables, but should also be given live food such as brine shrimp, insect larvae and small flying insects.

Breeding: The Red-Spotted Tetra should be bred in a pair. The male, who will display great colouration in the form of a red dotted flank, will mate with the female when she lays her eggs in your gravel substrate or on a flat stone. The female can produce around 300 eggs. You should remove the female at this point. You should also remove the male once the fry have hatched from the eggs and can swim on their own.

Comments: Copeina guttata is best kept in larger tanks where it has plenty of swimming space. A tank of at least 30 gallons in volume is recommended. This species is quite hardy but careful attention should be paid to water quality. You can add plants to your tank, along with flat rocks and several hiding places. This species is suitable for beginners and newcomers to the aquarium hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-15 12:50:24. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus rhodostomus (Rummy Nose Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:32:58 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hemigrammus rhodostomus is found in the lower Amazon River basin in Paraguay and Aripiranga, South America.

PH: 5.0 – 6.0 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (73 – 81°F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: The Rummy Nose Tetra can be identified by its bright red nose. It is elongated and slender, with a base colouration of silver with green iridescent scales where the upper back of the head meets the body. The red continues into the upper part of the iris and continues into the gill plate. The caudal fin sports black and white horizontal stripes; eye-catching when flitting about the tank.

Hemigrammus rhodostomus is often confused with Hemigrammus bleheri and Petitella georgiae, as they all look alike. Hemigrammus rhodostomus is the ‘True’ Rummy Nose. They are the least colourful of all three, however it is also the hardiest and easiest to breed. Hemigrammus bleheri has more variety in its colouration, and Petitella georgiae is a lot less red.

The species grows up to 5cm and, like the rest of the Hemigrammus family, the female is more rotund than the males. They should be kept in shoals of at least 6.

Diet: Hemigrammus rhodostomus will happily survive on high quality flake foods with live or frozen foods supplemented.

Breeding: This species is hard to breed. The Rummy Nose Tetra requires a tank that includes exceptionally soft and slightly acidic water, as well as some plants and rocks on which to spawn. If you find aquarium-bred Hemigrammus rhodostomus, they will be easier to breed. Remove the parents after spawning has occurred as they are carnivorous.

The eggs will hatch in 3-4 days, and the fry will be free swimming in another 2-4 days.

Comments: Keep your Hemigrammus rhodostomus in a densely-planted 200L aquarium with an area for swimming in the centre. They can be extremely sensitive to water conditions, thus gradual changes are recommended. They need a medium-speed filter to imitate their natural environment.

The Rummy Nose Tetra is not recommended for beginners due to their water sensitivity and their difficulty to breed.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-20 15:03:13. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon meridionalis

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:32:53 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessbrycon meridionalis can be found in the lower region of the Parana River and the coastal basins of the Grande do Sul River in Brazil, South America.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82 °F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Hyphessobrycon meridionalis is a medium-sized Tetra, reaching 4.6cm in the tank. They are remarkably rare in the hobby and therefore there is inadequate information available on their specific behaviours and colouration. If they are anything like their Hyphessobrycon relatives, however, they should be peaceful, active schooling fish that will thrive in a community tank.

Diet: A diet high in flakes or pellets will suit Hyphessobrycon meridionalis, with occasional live food treats. The species tends to favour bloodworms and insect larvae.

Breeding: As Hyphessobrycon meridionalis is so unusual in the hobby, there are currently no reports of breeding attempts. If attempting yourself, use a typical Hyphessobrycon methodology: start by setting up two conditioning tanks and put a year old male in one and a year old female in the other. Feed the duo on live foods for about three weeks and then introduce them into a breeding tank. The tank should be set up with a warm temperature (around 26°C), soft water, fine-leaved plants and dim lighting. It is unknown if the eggs are light-sensitive, so it is best to err on the side of caution and keep them in the dark.

The pair should spawn into the leaves within three days. If this doesn’t happen, repeat the conditioning process. Remove the parents after spawning before they eat the eggs.

24 hours later and the eggs will begin to hatch. Feed the free swimming fry on baby brine shrimp.

Comments: It is extremely difficult (nigh impossible) to find Hyphessobrycon meridionalis for sale and therefore there is an extreme scarcity of information available. For this reason, general information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon family has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 07:42:26. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus unilineatus (Featherfin Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:32:51 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hemigrammus unilineatus make their home in river basins in Central and South America; specifically, Trinidad, coastal regions of Venezuela, the rivers of Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, and the Amazon and Guaporé River basins. They prefer low- to non-moving currents, such as those in ponds, ditches and some streams.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 23 – 27°C (74 – 80°F)

Hardness: 5 – 20 gdH

Description: Another metallic, iridescent tetra, The Congo Tetra are active and sociable fish, making them an attention-grabbing addition to any tank, community or otherwise. They will reach a little over 5cm in captivity. In order to see them thrive, keep your Hemigrammus unilineatus in shoals of at least 6, if not ten or more. The dominant males often race each other around the tank.

The species metallic pigment creates flashes of gold, blue and silver when it catches the light. The males display a better type of colouration: they have a pattern of pastel colours. He also has longer fins.

The Congo Tetra can be differentiated from the rest of the Hemigrammus family through its body shape: it is oval-shaped and more rounded.

Diet: Feed your Hemigrammus unilineatus an omnivorous diet. They prefer live foods in their natural environment but in captivity they will eat almost anything. Flakes and live foods such as bloodworms, brine and insects will be best. It has also been recommended that they will enjoy ants (garden or house) and small house spiders.

Breeding: It is not difficult to breed Hemigrammus unilineatus. Condition a pair of Congo Tetras on frozen and live foods so they are in the best condition. Expose the tank to morning sunlight and complete partial water changes. They will spawn into fine-leaved plants.

The fry will hatch in a little under a week. They are large enough to consume baby brine shrimp from the very start.

Comments: This species of Hemigrammus requires a much larger tank than the rest of its family. The set up is much the same as the others: dense plantation at the sides and back and a large open area in the middle for free-swimming.

The Congo Tetra is not suitable for beginners, as it is extremely sensitive to water conditions.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Any species that is not aggressive and territorial will do well with Hemigrammus unilineatus. They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami(such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-20 15:34:08. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Tetra Species

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:32:43 +0000

The Tetra family are wide spread and very common in the aquarium hobby, this is because most of them make great community fish, they are active, colourful, generally cheap and typically friendly.

Arnoldichthys spilopterus – Niger Tetra, Arnold’s Characin, Red-eye Characin
Astyanax jordani – Blind Cave Fish
Boehlkea fredcochui – Chochu’s Blue Tetra
Brycinus longipinnis – African Tetra, Long fin Tetra
Gymnocorymbus ternetzi – Black Widow Tetra
Hasemania nana – Silver Tip Tetra
Hemigrammus aereus
Hemigrammus analis
Hemigrammus arua
Hemigrammus barrigonae
Hemigrammus bellottii
Hemigrammus bleheri
Hemigrammus boesemani
Hemigrammus brevis
Hemigrammus coeruleus
Hemigrammus cupreus
Hemigrammus cylindricus
Hemigrammus elegans
Hemigrammus erythrozonus
Hemigrammus geisleri
Hemigrammus gracilis
Hemigrammus guyanensis
Hemigrammus haraldi
Hemigrammus hyanuary
Hemigrammus iota
Hemigrammus levis
Hemigrammus luelingi
Hemigrammus lunatus
Hemigrammus mahnerti
Hemigrammus marginatus
Hemigrammus matei
Hemigrammus maxillaris
Hemigrammus megaceps
Hemigrammus melanochrous
Hemigrammus micropterus
Hemigrammus microstomus
Hemigrammus mimus
Hemigrammus neptunus
Hemigrammus newboldi
Hemigrammus ocellifer
Hemigrammus ora
Hemigrammus orthus
Hemigrammus parana
Hemigrammus pretoensis
Hemigrammus pulcher
Hemigrammus rhodostomus
Hemigrammus rodwayi
Hemigrammus schmardae
Hemigrammus silimoni
Hemigrammus skolioplatus
Hemigrammus stictus
Hemigrammus taphorni
Hemigrammus tridens
Hemigrammus ulreyi
Hemigrammus unilineatus
Hemigrammus vorderwinkleri
Hyphessobrycon agulha
Hyphessobrycon albolineatum
Hyphessobrycon amandae
Hyphessobrycon amapaensis
Hyphessobrycon anisitsi
Hyphessobrycon arianae
Hyphessobrycon auca
Hyphessobrycon axelrodi
Hyphessobrycon balbus
Hyphessobrycon bentosi
Hyphessobrycon bifasciatus
Hyphessobrycon borealis
Hyphessobrycon boulengeri
Hyphessobrycon cachimbensis
Hyphessobrycon catableptus
Hyphessobrycon coelestinus
Hyphessobrycon columbianus
Hyphessobrycon compressus
Hyphessobrycon condotensis
Hyphessobrycon copelandi
Hyphessobrycon cyanotaenia
Hyphessobrycon diancistrus
Hyphessobrycon duragenys
Hyphessobrycon ecuadorensis
Hyphessobrycon ecuadoriensis
Hyphessobrycon eilyos
Hyphessobrycon elachys
Hyphessobrycon eos
Hyphessobrycon epicharis
Hyphessobrycon eques
Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma
Hyphessobrycon fernandezi
Hyphessobrycon flammeus
Hyphessobrycon frankei
Hyphessobrycon georgettae
Hyphessobrycon gracilior
Hyphessobrycon griemi
Hyphessobrycon guarani
Hyphessobrycon hamatus
Hyphessobrycon haraldschultzi
Hyphessobrycon hasemani
Hyphessobrycon heliacus
Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi
Hyphessobrycon heteresthes
Hyphessobrycon heterorhabdus
Hyphessobrycon hexastichos
Hyphessobrycon hildae
Hyphessobrycon igneus
Hyphessobrycon iheringi
Hyphessobrycon inconstans
Hyphessobrycon isiri
Hyphessobrycon itaparicensis
Hyphessobrycon khardinae
Hyphessobrycon langeanii
Hyphessobrycon latus
Hyphessobrycon loretoensis
Hyphessobrycon loweae
Hyphessobrycon luetkenii
Hyphessobrycon maculicauda
Hyphessobrycon megalopterus
Hyphessobrycon melanopleurus
Hyphessobrycon melanostichos
Hyphessobrycon melasemeion
Hyphessobrycon melazonatus
Hyphessobrycon meridionalis
Hyphessobrycon metae
Hyphessobrycon micropterus
Hyphessobrycon milleri
Hyphessobrycon minimus
Hyphessobrycon minor
Hyphessobrycon moniliger
Hyphessobrycon mutabilis
Hyphessobrycon negodagua
Hyphessobrycon nigricinctus
Hyphessobrycon notidanos
Hyphessobrycon ocasoensis
Hyphessobrycon oritoensis
Hyphessobrycon otrynus
Hyphessobrycon panamensis
Hyphessobrycon parvellus
Hyphessobrycon paucilepis
Hyphessobrycon peruvianus
Hyphessobrycon piabinhas
Hyphessobrycon poecilioides
Hyphessobrycon procerus
Hyphessobrycon proteus
Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis
Hyphessobrycon pyrrhonotus
Hyphessobrycon pytai
Hyphessobrycon reticulatus
Hyphessobrycon robustulus
Hyphessobrycon rosaceus
Hyphessobrycon roseus
Hyphessobrycon rutiliflavidus
Hyphessobrycon saizi
Hyphessobrycon santae
Hyphessobrycon savagei
Hyphessobrycon schauenseei
Hyphessobrycon scholzei
Hyphessobrycon scutulatus
Hyphessobrycon simulatus
Hyphessobrycon socolofi
Hyphessobrycon sovichthys
Hyphessobrycon stegemanni
Hyphessobrycon stramineus
Hyphessobrycon sweglesi
Hyphessobrycon takasei
Hyphessobrycon taurocephalus
Hyphessobrycon tenuis
Hyphessobrycon togoi
Hyphessobrycon tortuguerae
Hyphessobrycon tropis
Hyphessobrycon tukunai
Hyphessobrycon tuyensis
Hyphessobrycon uruguayensis
Hyphessobrycon vilmae
Hyphessobrycon vinaceus
Hyphessobrycon wajat
Hyphessobrycon weitzmanorum
Hyphessobrycon werneri
Inpaichthys kerri – Blue Emperor Tetra, Royal Tetra
Lepidarchus adonis – Flagtail Tetra, Adonis Tetra, Jellybean Tetra
Mimagoniates microlepis – Croaking Tetra, Blue tetra
Moenkhausia affinis
Moenkhausia agnesae
Moenkhausia atahualpiana
Moenkhausia barbouri
Moenkhausia bonita
Moenkhausia browni
Moenkhausia ceros
Moenkhausia chrysargyrea
Moenkhausia collettii
Moenkhausia comma
Moenkhausia copei
Moenkhausia cosmops
Moenkhausia costae
Moenkhausia cotinho
Moenkhausia crisnejas
Moenkhausia diamantina
Moenkhausia dichroura
Moenkhausia diktyota
Moenkhausia doceana
Moenkhausia dorsinuda
Moenkhausia eigenmanni
Moenkhausia forestii
Moenkhausia georgiae
Moenkhausia gracilima
Moenkhausia grandisquamis
Moenkhausia hasemani
Moenkhausia heikoi
Moenkhausia hemigrammoides
Moenkhausia hysterosticta
Moenkhausia inrai
Moenkhausia intermedia
Moenkhausia jamesi
Moenkhausia justae
Moenkhausia lata
Moenkhausia latissima
Moenkhausia lepidura
Moenkhausia levidorsa
Moenkhausia lopesi
Moenkhausia loweae
Moenkhausia margitae
Moenkhausia megalops
Moenkhausia melogramma
Moenkhausia metae
Moenkhausia miangi
Moenkhausia moisae
Moenkhausia naponis
Moenkhausia newtoni
Moenkhausia nigromarginata
Moenkhausia oligolepis
Moenkhausia orteguasae
Moenkhausia ovalis
Moenkhausia pankilopteryx
Moenkhausia petymbuaba
Moenkhausia phaeonota
Moenkhausia pittieri
Moenkhausia pyrophthalma
Moenkhausia rara
Moenkhausia robertsi
Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae
Moenkhausia shideleri
Moenkhausia simulata
Moenkhausia surinamensis
Moenkhausia takasei
Moenkhausia tergimacula
Moenkhausia tridentata
Moenkhausia xinguensis
Paracheirodon axelrodi – Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon innesi – Neon Tetra
Petitella georgiae – False Rummy Nose
Phenacogrammus interruptus – Congo Tetra
Poecilocharax weitzmani – Shining Tetra
Prionobrama filigera – Glass Bloodfin
Pristella maxillaris – Pristella, X-ray Tetra
Thayeria ifati
Thayeria obliqua

Originally posted 2010-04-26 22:10:48. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus luelingi

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:32:38 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Pacaya River basin in South America is where Hemigrammus luelingi come from.

PH: 5.5 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 24 – 28°C (74 – 82°F)

Hardness: 7 gdH

Description: Hemigrammus luelingi will grow to around 3cm in captivity. It will probably demonstrate a similar personality as the rest of the Hemigrammus species: peaceful, active and sociable.

Due to the rarity of this fish in the hobby, there is little documentation available. Thus, social habits, sexual dimorphism, and colouration are unknown.

Diet: Try an omnivorous diet for your Hemigrammus luelingi. If they reject live foods, change to a purely herbivorous diet.

Breeding: Due to the fact Hemigrammus luelingi is generally undocumented within captivity, breeding information is unknown.

Comments: As Hemigrammus luelingi is unusual in the hobby, there is a scarcity of information. Subsequently, general information regarding the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-20 14:15:18. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon sweglesi (Red Phantom Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:32:33 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon sweglesi is found in the rivers of the Orinoco Basin in Columbia, South America, an area of great Hyphessobrycon concentration. They are found in shallow and heavily vegetation areas in rivers and creeks.

PH: 5.7-7.5

Temperature: 21-25°C (70-77°F)

Hardness: 4-20dH

Description: The colour of an adult Hyphessobrycon sweglesi can range from brown to a beautiful blood-red colour, while younger fish may exhibit far less colouration, even none. These fish have brighter heads in relation to the rest of their body, and show a red line running from the gill covers across to the tail. Perhaps the most striking feature is the black mark situated behind the gill cover, shaped like a comma, which fades a little as the fish ages. Males are brighter in colour than females and have a sharper, taller dorsal fin. A female’s dorasl fin will be multicoloured. These fish grow to 3-4cm. Red phantom tetra are a calm, shoaling fish. They are happy in groups of 6, but 10 or more is recommended. They may be confused with serpae tetra, but are a little more elongated, and have fuller spots on their flanks.

Diet: Not a fussy fish, Hyphessobrycon sweglesi is omnivorous and should be fed once or twice a day with pellets, flakes, or live or frozen food such as insect larvae and brine shrimp. Insect larvae, bloodworm, brine shrimp, daphnia and Tubifex are all acceptable.

Breeding: The tank requires dim lighting for breeding. The eggs can sensitive to fungus and so appropriate precautions should be taken. They are a reddish-brown colour and will be scattered among the tank’s plants. Hatching will occur during the morning in 1-2 days, and the fry can be seen swimming around 4-5 days later. Intially, they should be fed small live foods. They will take a little time to grow, and they can be a little fragile. Water conditions in the breeding tank should include a pH of 5.5-6.0, and a water hardness of 1-2dH.

Tip:

Comments: The tank should provide the fish with hiding places through the use of things like bog wood, and regular water changes are required in the care of the fish.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Hyphessobrycon sweglesi live best with other South American tetra. Larger and longer-tailed fish should be avoided, but most peaceful community fish of a similar size should work fine. They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami(such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-20 15:47:59. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae (Red Eye Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:32:32 +0000

Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-05 23:22:23. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus erythrozonus (Glowlight Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:32:30 +0000

Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-05 04:03:14. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon micropleurus

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:32:20 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: São Francisco River basin of South America is where Hyphessobrycon micropleurus choses to inhabit.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82 °F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Still on the small side of the Hyphessobrycon scale, Hyphessobrycon micropleurus falls just short of 3cm when fully mature. The family is generally peaceful, active and non-aggressive and there is no indication that Hyphessobrycon micropleurus will be any different. They are good additions to any community or species-specific tank.

As they are so uncommon, there is a lack of data such as colouration and specific social behaviours.

Diet: The Hyphessobrycon species thrive on omnivorous diets. Your Hyphessobrycon micropleurus will enjoy a diet that is primarily flakes or pellets with occasional live foods as treats.

First separate a male and a female (at least one year old) into two conditioning tanks. Feed them live foods for about three weeks before introducing them into the breeding tank. They should breed within 24 hours, but give them three days and, if no eggs appear, repeat the conditioning process.

Err on the side of caution and keep the eggs of Hyphessobrycon micropleurus in as much dark as possible as it is unknown whether they are light-sensitive or not.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon micropleurus is uncommon in the hobby and therefore there is limited information available. Consequently, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species in general has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 07:50:33. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon fernandezi

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:31:53 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon fernandezi is endemic to the Yaracuy River basin of South America.

PH: 6 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 23 – 28°C (74 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Growing to just shy of 4cm, Hyphessobrycon fernandezi (if he’s anything like his relatives) is a peaceful, shoaling fish that is perfectly suited to a community tank. Non-aggressive and with displays of territoriality, this species will thrive when kept in groups of at least six.

Due to the uncommonness in the hobby, there is no available information regarding sexual dimorphism, colouration, or specific behaviours.

Diet: The Hyphessobrycon species are omnivores and should be fed a diet that is mostly flake food, with bi-weekly treats of live or frozen foods.

Breeding: Due to the lack of available information regarding the specifics of Hyphessobrycon fernandezi, the general method of breeding used for the Hyphessobrycon species has been included.

Separate a pair of one year olds into two conditioning tanks. They should be fed with insect larvae and Drosophila for two-to-three weeks, when they can then be introduced into a breeding tank. A 38L tank is sufficient size for the small Hyphessobrycon fernandezi.

The pair should spawn within three days – if not, repeat the process. Hypessobrycon fernandezi spawn into the leaves of the plants and should be removed immediately after the eggs are laid. The eggs will hatch within 2 days, and the fry will be free-swimming a few days after that. The fry can be fed on micro-organisms and baby Brine Shrimp for the first ten days, and then on crushed flake foods. The water should be partially changed weekly.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon fernandezi is rare in the hobby and therefore there is limited information available. For this reason, general information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon family has been included.

The species is, in general, very easy to keep and suitable for an aquarist of any experience level.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:26:49. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus brevis

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:31:52 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hemigrammus brevis originates from the São Francisco River basin in South America.

PH: The preferred pH is unknown due to the rarity of Hemigrammus brevis is captivity. The Hemigrammus species generally varies between 5.5 and 7.5.

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

Hardness: 8 gdH

Description: There is very little information available on Hemigrammus brevis due to its uncommonness in the hobby. Its exact temperament, social habits and sexual dimorphism is therefore unattainable.

What is known is that it is one of the smaller of the Hemigrammus species, reaching a maximum length of 3.5 – 4cm. If it is anything like the rest of its Hemigrammus relatives, it will be an ideal community tank mate as it is peaceful, active and sociable.

Diet: The Hemigrammus species generally prefer an omnivorous diet. If your Hemigrammus brevis rejects the live food, then use a herbivorous diet.

Breeding: Due to the rarity of it being kept in captivity, it is unknown how difficult it is to breed Hemigrammus brevis. Also unknown are the ideal breeding methods.

Comments: As Hemigrammus brevis is unusual in the hobby, there is a scarcity of information. Subsequently, general information regarding the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-18 12:15:06. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon diancistrus

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:31:50 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: 2002 heralded the discovery of Hyphessobrycon diancistrus in the Negro and Orinoco River basins, South America.

PH: 4.5 – 5.5 pH

Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)

Hardness: 0 – 4 dH

Description: Due to the recency of its discovery, there is little known about Hyphessobrycon diancistrus. The one solid piece of information is that it reaches a length of 3cm.

If it turns out to be anything like its Hyphessobrycon relatives, this fish will be peaceful, calm and non-territorial. It will probably also be active and prefer to live in shoals.

Diet: Feed your Hyphessobrycon diancistrus an omnivorous diet, primarily composed of quality flake foods with occasional live or frozen foods such as insect larvae and blood worms.

Breeding: There are currently no successful breeding reports in captivity, but if you’re lucky enough to find this fish and want to give breeding a go, it is recommended you use the general Hyphessobrycon method.

Set up two conditioning tanks, one for a year old male and one for a year old female. Your two Hyphessobrycon diancistrus should be fed on a diet of Drosophila and insect larvae for two-to-three weeks, before moving them into a 38L breeding tank. The tank should have a temperature of 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F), a pH of 5.5 – 6.5, and dH of 2 – 4. Partial weekly water changes are a must. Do not use any form of substrate, just fine-leaved plants and a soft filtration system (sponge or foam).

Comments: Due to the fact Hyphessobrycon diancistrus was so recently discovered, there is very little completed information and research. Because of this, general information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:00:50. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon inconstans

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:31:47 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon inconstans is found in the rivers of Pará, Brazil.

PH: 6.5 – 7.0 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82 °F)

Hardness: 2 – 7 dH

Description: Hyphessobrycon inconstans is a mid-sized Tetra, reaching 4.5cm in the tank. As they are unusual in the hobby, there is limited information available regarding social behaviours, colourations and sexual dimorphism. If Hyphessobrycon inconstans is anything like its relatives, it will be active, peaceful and prefer to be kept in schools of at least six.

Diet: A diet that is balanced with both flakes and live foods is suitable for your Hyphessobrycon inconstans. Use flakes or pellets as their staple and treat them with occasion live foods.

Breeding: As this fish is uncommon in the hobby, there are currently no breeding reports (successful or otherwise) available. If you want to attempt it, it is suggested that you use the common Hyphessobrycon method.

Begin by placing a year old male and a year old female in separate conditioning tanks. Feed them on live food (blood worms and the like) for three weeks before you transport them into a breeding tank. Ensure the tank has fine-leaved plants, dim lighting, soft filtration and a warm temperature (26°C). It may take up to three days for the pair to spawn. If nothing has happened, repeat the conditioning process.

Remove the parents-to-be from the tank once eggs appear on the leaves, before they start to devour them. The roe will begin to hatch after 24 hours and once the fry are free swimming try feeding them baby brine, Infusoria or crushed flake.

As it is unknown whether the eggs of the Hyphessobrycon inconstans are light-sensitive or not, you should err on the side of caution and keep them in as much dark as possible.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon inconstans is rare in the hobby and therefore there is limited information available. Subsequently, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species in general has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 06:08:11. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Thayeria boehlkei (Penguin Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:31:43 +0000

Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-05 02:47:51. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus barrigonae

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:31:33 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Rio Meta and Rio Orinoco basins found in Colombia and Venezuela, South America, are the locality of Hemigrammus barrigonae. They prefer slow-moving bodies of water such as rivers and tributaries.

PH: 5.8 – 7 pH

Temperature: 22 – 26 °C (72 – 79°F)

Hardness: 2 – 10 dH

Description: Hemigrammus barrigonae are a peaceful species that prefer to kept in shoals of at least 6 (preferably ten or more). They do not thrive on their own. They will reach a length of around 4cm in captivity.

The females can be identified in maturity by their slightly round stomaches.

Colouration is unknown due to their scarcity in the hobby.

Diet: An omnivorous diet should be used to feed your Hemigrammus barrigonae. Equal parts dry flake foods or pellets and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp will suit the species.

Breeding: Breeding reports are uncommon; however it is believed that a methodology similar to other Hemigrammus species will be suitable. Use a separate well-planted tank that is very dimly lit (use side vegetation and floating plants, and keep the tank out of direct sunlight); also include slight filtration (air-powered sponge filter, for instance) and rainwater may encourage high productivity.

Hemigrammus barrigonae will spawn into java moss or spawning mops, which need to removed immediately after the eggs have been laid as the parents will eat them. The eggs will hatch within 2 days, and the fry will be swimming around 3-4 days later. They can be fed on infusoria for the first couple of days, after which they will be large enough to eat microworm or baby brine.

The eggs and fry are extremely sensitive to light and therefore need to be kept in as much darkness as possible.

Comments: This fish is moderately difficult to maintain and the attention it requires – especially when breeding – means it is not suitable for beginners.

They do not like dense plantation, as this is not found in their natural environment; however they like murky water. A tank of at lest 70L should be used to give the shoals plenty of room to swim about.

The tank set up can be expensive and time consuming. It requires river sand as substrate and the addition of driftwood branches and roots. Dried leaves left for a few weeks each time will ‘stain’ the water and mimic the natural environment of Hemigrammus barrigonae.

Keep a ratio of one male to two females, as this will dissuade the females from being overly-pursued.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-17 21:53:03. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon epicharis

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:31:22 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The upper Orinoco and Negro River basins in South America is where Hyphessobrycon epicharis can be found.

PH: 6 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 23 – 28°C (74 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Growing to a little less than 3.5cm, Hyphessobrycon epicharis is a beautifully-coloured fish. The base colouration is silver, with a faint red line running down the body from the snout to base of the caudal fins. The upper part of the iris is also red, with some black edging around the red. The caudal and pelvic fins are a deeper red than the stripe. Hyphessobrycon epicharis also sports a large, horizontally-elongated black smudge behind its gills, as well as a black-and-white-tipped dorsal fin.

If their behaviour is anything like their relatives, Hyphessobrycon epicharis will be peaceful, active and non-aggressive. They will also thrive when kept in shoals of 6 or more.

Diet: The omnivorous diet suits Hyphessobrycon species and there’s no indication this specific fish is any different. Use quality flake foods as their staple; and frozen or live foods as treats once or twice a week.

Breeding: There is little known about breeding in the tank, considering how rare this fish is in the hobby. Therefore, it is recommended that the breeding method used by the majority of the Hyphessobrycon species is utilised when attempting with Hyphessobrycon epicharis.

Two conditioning tanks should be established to house a one-year-old male and a one-year-old female. These should be conditioned on Drosophila and insect larvae for two-to-three weeks, before the duo can be introduced into breeding tank of at least 40L. To set up a breeding tank, include many fine-leaved plants and a soft filtration system, but do not use a substrate. Use water with a pH of 5.5 – 6.5, a dH of 2 – 4, and a temperature of 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F). It is unknown if the eggs are light-sensitive, so it is best to keep them out of direct sunlight just in case.

It should take three days for the pair to spawn. If no eggs appear, recondition them. The eggs will appear in the leaves of the plants and the parents should be removed immediately after spawning as they are cannibalistic. A little over twenty-four hours after being laid, the eggs will hatch. The fry will appear few days later and should be fed on an initial diet of micro-organisms and baby Brine, and crushed flake ten days later.

The eggs and fry require weekly, partial water changes as they are susceptible to illness in poor water conditions.

Comments: As there is little known about keeping Hyphessobrycon epicharis, general information pertaining to the family has been included. The species is generally easy to care for and suitable for any individual.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:13:52. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon compressus (Mayan Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:31:21 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Papaloapam River Basin, Mexico, North America is the home of Hyphessobrycon compressus.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 23 – 28°C (73 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: The Mayan Tetra will attain a size of around 4cm and are generally peaceful and actively shoaling fish. They are ideal community tank mates due to their low aggression.

As they are rare in the hobby, certain information such as sexual differences, colouration and habits is unknown.

Diet: Feed your Mayan Tetra an omnivorous diet. Whilst flake and freeze-dried food can constitute the staple diet of Hyphessobrycon compressus, it also requires live food to keep them healthy. It is important to note that they are mid-level dwellers and will ignore food when it sinks past them. For these reasons, it is advised to feed them as much as possible at multiple times during a day.

Breeding: Separate the parents-to-be from the rest of the group and feed them on a diet consisting mainly of frozen foods. Keep the water soft and only slightly acidic, with a temperature 23 – 26°C. The tank should be kept dimly lit and have dense plantation (of fine-leaved plants).

The parents should be removed immediately after spawning as they will consume the eggs. The roe will hatch in one to three days, and the fry will be free swimming within a day or so. Live foods (chopped up finely) should be fed to the fry, and the water should be changed daily.

Comments: The tank should be set up with gravel or sand as the substrate and dechlorinated water. Use a tank of around 40L. To mimic their natural habitat, use some plantation and other hiding spaces. They also require regular water changes.

Whilst the majority of the Hyphessobrycon family are suitable for beginners, the maintenance required to keep Hyphessobrycon compressus is higher than average and therefore it is not really recommended to those wanting to keep fish as a side hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 01:49:44. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus arua

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:31:15 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: This recently discovered species was found in Pará State, Brazil, within the tributaries of Rio Arapiuns, Rio Amazonas, igarapé Juruti Grande, and the basin of Rio Tapajós.

PH: 6.3 – 7.1 pH

Temperature: 23 – 26 °C (73 – 79°F)

Hardness: 6 – 14 dH

Description: Hemigrammus arua displays a yellow-tan colouration to its body, with a lighter stomach (pale yellow or bright gold with green tinge; or even silver). The fins are orange-reddish which fade to white at the extensions; except for the pectoral fin which is translucent. The most distinctive feature is the single, large splotch found on the upper body. This splotch has a curved augmentation to the top, making it appear to be an inverted comma. There is also a thin, longitudinal line running from the splotch to the caudal fin. They will only reach 3.5cm.

The caudal fin of Hemigrammus arua is forked. Interestingly, the dorsal fin changes shape as the fish ages: when young, the fin will be pointed; by the time it has reached adulthood, the dorsal fin is rounded.

There is no difference between the sexes.

As they are a recent discovery, information regarding social behaviour and temperament is unavailable; thus it is unknown if they are suitable for community tanks.

Diet: Due to the fact they are a new discovery, it is unknown what diet they prefer. Experiment with the diet typical of the Hemigrammus species: quality flake for their staple with occasional live food as a treat.

Breeding: It is unknown what degree of difficulty breeders will encounter with Hemigrammus arua. As they are a new species, there is no available information on this topic.

Comments: Due to the fact that this is a newly discovered species, there is not much information readily available. However, we can assert that the general knowledge known about Characidae family rings true for Hemigrammus arua.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-17 21:49:27. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon bifasciatus (Yellow Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:31:14 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Yellow Tetra can be found in Brazil, South America; specifically, the upper Parana River basin, Espírito Santo, and Grande do Sul River.

PH: 5.8 – 8.0 pH

Temperature: 20 – 25°C (68 – 77°F)

Hardness: 0 – 30 dH

Description: Hyphessobrycon bifasciatus will thrive when kept in shoals of at least four. They will reach a length of 6cm and are quite peaceful within the tank.

The base colouration of the Yellow Tetra is yellow and silver. The yellow colour will get more vibrant as the fish matures, as long as the diet is correct.

The sexes can be differentiated only when mature, when the female becomes more rotund.

Diet: The Yellow Tetra will eat most foods that are offered. It prefers live foods, however this should be balanced with flakes and pellets.

Breeding: Set up two conditioning tanks, one for a year old male and one for a year old female. The two Hyphessobrycon bifasciatus should be fed on a diet of Drosophila and insect larvae for two-to-three weeks, before moving them into a 38L breeding tank. The tank should have a temperature of 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F), a pH of 6.5, and dH of 2 – 4. Partial weekly water changes are a must. Do not use any form of substrate, just fine-leaved plants and a soft filtration system (sponge or foam). The Yellow Tetra also require dim lighting.

Comments: Due to the larger size of these Tetras to most others, they require a tank of at least 50L. A light substrate should be used, as well as sparse plantation. Hyphessobrycon bifasciatus also enjoys a slow to moderate current.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 01:35:35. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon borealis

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:31:00 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: French Guiana is the home of Hyphessobrycon borealis. It inhabits the banks of shallow water rivers that have a slow current.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 23 – 28°C (73 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Hyphessobrycon borealis will reach a length just below 3cm in captivity. It is uncommon in the hobby and therefore there is little information available regarding this species. The Hyphessobrycon species are generally peaceful and active fish that suit a community tank well.

Diet: An omnivorous diet will allow your Hyphessobrycon borealis to thrive. Ensure that it is mostly flake or pellet food, with live and frozen foods as treats.

Breeding: It is unknown exactly what breeding method will produce the best results for Hyphessobrycon borealis; however it recommended that the general species method is followed.

Two conditioning tanks should be set up to hold a one-year-old male and a one-year-old female. These should be conditioned on Drosophila and insect larvae for two-to-three weeks, before the duo can be introduced into a 38L breeding tank. To set up a breeding tank, include many fine-leaved plants and a soft filtration system, but do not use substrate. Use water with a pH of 5.5 – 6.5, a dH of 2 – 4, and a temperature of 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F). It is unknown if the eggs are light-sensitive, so it is best to keep them out of direct sunlight just in case.

The eggs and fry require weekly, partial water changes as they are susceptible to illness in poor water conditions.

Comments: Due to its rarity in the tank and the lack of research completed, there is little information available on Hyphessobrycon borealis. Therefore, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species in general has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 01:37:21. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Micralestes occidentalis (African Redfinned Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:30:54 +0000

Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-05 03:27:34. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon hasemani

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:30:42 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon hasemani makes its home in the Maderia River, South America.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82 °F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: This species of Hyphessobrycon will reach a length of 3cm in tanks, making it extremely small and occasionally difficult to see. It is a peaceful, schooling fish and should be kept in groups of six or more.

This fish is rare in captivity and therefore specifics such as colouration and social habits are unavailable.

Diet: The Hyphessobrycon species thrive on omnivorous diets. Feed your Hyphessobrycon hasemani on a diet that is primarily flakes or pellets with occasional live foods as treats.

As it is unknown whether the eggs of the Hyphessobrycon hasemani are light-sensitive or not, you should keep them in as much dark as possible to be careful.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon hasemani is uncommon in the hobby and therefore there is limited information available. Consequently, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species in general has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:42:15. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Pristella maxillaris (X-Ray Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:30:41 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Pristella maxillaris, known commonly as X-ray Tetra, is a pelagic South American species distributed in several parts of the Amazon River basin, the Orinoco River, and some coastal river drainages of the Guianas. It mostly occurs in ocean waters and in heavily vegetated swamps.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 24°C – 28C (75 – 82F)

Hardness: 4 – 18 dH

Description: Pristella maxillaris can reach up to 5 cm in length. It is a popular species among aquarists thanks to its intricate colouration and peaceful demeanour. This species has a highly transparent body – reflected in its common name – and a round, small humeral spot. Males are most slender than females; and you may actually be able to see the eggs inside the females when she is pregnant. Its dorsal fin has a black spot which is over-lined with white and underlined with yellow; its pelvic and anal fins have the same colouration. Pristella maxillaris has a life expectancy of about five years.

Diet: The X-ray Tetra will eat most foods offered to it, but you should use a quality flake as a staple diet. Offer it treats of bloodworm, white worms and brine shrimp once or twice a week.

Breeding: This species will breed easily, but raising the fry is the hard part. Put a pair in a breeding tank with neutral, moderately hard water. Provide plenty of vegetation in the tank and make sure there is available swimming space up the front. The female will lay as many as 500 eggs will be laid, which should hatch in about 2 – 3 days. The fry will be sensitive to any changes in their environment; it is recommended you make frequent subtle water changes to keep the youngsters healthy.

Comments: This schooling species will require at least a 10 litre tank. You should provide plenty of open areas for swimming, several plants – particularly when attempting to breed – and some hiding spaces. A dark soil substrate is recommended so as to highlight the fish’s natural colouration. The X-ray Tetra is quite easy to maintain and is relatively hardy, making it very suitable for newcomers to the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful species is tolerant of many water conditions and makes a great tank mate. They seem to be compatible with Yoyo Loaches, Opaline Gouramis, Bettas and some Plecos. You should house Pristella maxillaris in groups of at least 6 – 8.

Originally posted 2009-11-07 03:04:41. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus hyanuary (January Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:30:40 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hemigrammus hyanuary is named after the place of discovery: Lake Hyanuary near Manaus, Brazil. It can also be found in the upper and middle Amazon basins. However, the fish available from traders are mostly bred in captivity in Singapore.

PH: 5.6 – 7.4 pH

Temperature: 22 – 27°C (72 – 81 °F)

Hardness: 5 – 8 dH

Description: A peaceful bottom-dwelling fish, it is an ideal addition to any community tank. It thrives when kept in shoals of at least 6. A non-aggressive species, it will not fight for food, so it is best not to house them with fish that will eat all the food or fight them for it.

The colouration of Hemigrammus hyanuary varies from olive green to silver. It displays a yellow to green stripe from its snout to the base of the tail, and a black band runs below this to about mid-point on the body. At the base of the tail there is an orange or silver patch. Their fins are transparent.

The January Tetra grows to a length of 4-5cm. The male can be distinguished from the female as he is smaller and slimmer. He also has a small hook on his anal fin.

Diet: A herbivorous diet is recommended as the base for Hemigrammus hyanuary; however this should be supplemented with brine shrimp. Feed this species twice a day.

Breeding: The January Tetra is moderately difficult to breed. A breeding tank should be set up that includes water with 6.0pH, 4dH, and a temperature 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F). To imitate their natural environment, ensure that there are plants included, as Hemigrammus hyanuary spawns into the leaves.

The eggs will hatch in about 24 hours, with fry swimming freely three days later. Feed the fry on crushed flake, baby brine shrimp and micro-organisms. The water should also be changed weekly.

Comments: An enthusiastic beginner will find Hemigrammus hyanuary to be a hardy fish. It requires frequent water changes, dense plantation with an open space in the centre of the tank for swimming, well-oxygenated and peat filtered water. Place the tank where it can get the early morning sunshine.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-20 14:04:51. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi (Black Neon Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:30:36 +0000

Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-05 00:25:15. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus maxillaris

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:30:33 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Paraguay River basin in South America is the home of Hemigrammus maxillaris.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2-15 gdH

Description: Hemigrammus maxillaris will reach a maximum length of 5cm in the aquarium. The Hemigrammus species are normally mid-level dwellers, thrive when kept in shoals, and display a peaceful and sociable temperament.

Due to their rarity within the hobby, there is little data available regarding Hemigrammus maxillaris specifically; therefore, information such social habits, sexual dimorphia, and appearance is unavailable.

Diet: The Hemigrammus species usually thrive on an omnivorous diet consisting of flakes and live foods. Because of the small size of Hemigrammus maxillaris, all foods will have to be of a small size.

Breeding: As there is limited information available regarding Hemigrammus maxillaris, the general method accepted for the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Breeders should separate a male and female Hemigrammus maxillaris from both the shoal and from one another. These two fish should be around one year old. Condition them on insect larvae. A breeding tank consisting of peat-filtered water, dense plantation, natural lighting (only) and a slightly higher temperature should be set up. Introduce the duo into the breeding tank. If spawning does not occur within three days, repeat the process. If it fails a second time, try switching one of the partners.

Comments: A 38L tank is suitable for keeping a small shoal of just Hemigrammus maxillaris. If keeping them into a community tank, the tank size will need to be at least 60L. Heavy plantation on the sides and back should be used, whilst keeping the centre open for lots of free swimming space. A dark substrate will allow the best display of the species’ colouration. Top floating plants should also be included in order to diffuse the light.

The Hemigrammus species is a fairly hardy one, and thus is suitable for an aquarist of any experience level.

Hemigrammus maxillaris is fairly undocumented within the hobby and therefore general information pertaining to the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-20 14:27:22. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus bleheri (Red Nose Tetra / Rummy Nose Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:30:32 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Still or slow-moving bodies of water such as creeks and river bends in tributaries are the places of origin for Hemigrammus bleheri. This tetra likes the tributaries of the Rios Negro and Vaupes (Brazil and Columbia, respectively). There are some reports of the Rummy Nose Tetra also being found in Rio Meta, Columbia.

PH: 5.0 – 7.0 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2 – 8 dH

Description: A perfect species for a community tank, Hemigrammus bleheri will grow to around 6.5cm and prefers to be kept in shoals of at least five. They are very active and the combination of their tight shoaling and colours make them a sight to behold.

The colouration of the body of the Rummy Nose Tetra varies from silver to olive-brown. They display a gold or brown stripe from their heads down to the base of their tails. Three black and four white stripes are present on the tail, whilst the rest of the fins are transparent. It is named for the iris, snout and mouth which are blood red when good water conditions are maintained. Interestingly, aquarists are able to tell if there is something off with the water as the snout fades in colour.

Hemigrammus bleheri can be confused with Hemigrammus rhodostomus and Petitella georgiae. The latter of the two confused species has lesser red colouration on its head and well as lesser white colouration on the tail. Hemigrammys rhodostomus is also less colourful, however it is easier to breed.

It is impossible to distinguish between the two sexes except during the spawning season when the female becomes plumper.

Diet: A varied omnivorous diet will ensure your Red Nose Tetra’s colours are at their finest. Use flakes or pellets and mix in some live foods such as tubiflex worms, blood worms and brine shrimp. Note that the mouth of the Hemigrammus bellottii is rather small, so crush or cut up the food according.

Breeding: It is extremely difficult to breed Hemigrammus bellottii. They require a separate breeding tank – temp: 27 – 28 °C; pH: 5.5 – 6.5; dH: 1 – 4 – with feathered plantation. The parents may eat the eggs after spawning but this may be avoided by feeding them white worms and then removing them.

This species has a low productivity rate, only dropping a few eggs each time. The fry will hatch in a little over a day and four days later the fry will be swimming around. Feed them on tiny, cut up micro-organisms. The fry are notoriously difficult to raise and can often die.

Comments: Due to the difficulty of breeding, sensitivity to water pollutants and susceptibility to disease, this fish is recommended for those with at least a moderate level of experience. Whilst they are good community fish, they require a lot of care and attention.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: Hemigrammus bellottii prefers similar sized tank mates and those that are not overly boisterous. They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami(such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-17 22:02:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon melanopleurus

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:30:26 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon melanopleurus makes its home in the Upper Tietê River of South America.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82 °F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Still on the small side of the family, Hyphessobrycon melanopleurus will attain a maximum length of only 3.5 cm. This species is generally peaceful, active and non-aggressive. They are good additions to any community or species-specific tank.

As they are so uncommon, there is a lack of data such as colouration and specific social behaviours.

Diet: The Hyphessobrycon species thrive on omnivorous diets. Your Hyphessobrycon melanopleurus will enjoy a diet that is primarily flakes or pellets with occasional live foods as treats.

As it is unknown whether the eggs of the Hyphessobrycon melanopleurus are light-sensitive or not, you should err on the side of caution and keep them in as much dark as possible.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon melanopleurus is uncommon in the hobby and therefore there is limited information available. Consequently, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species in general has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates. Do not put your Hyphessobrycon melanopleurus in an environment with larger, more aggressive species

Originally posted 2010-04-21 06:52:54. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon eques (Serpae Tetra / Callistus Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:30:13 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Serpae Tetra can be located in the Paraguay and Guaporé River basins of Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina. Reports suggest it may also be found in French Guiana. It prefers still (or very slow moving) waters of tributaries, ponds and small lakes. The areas which it inhabits often include vegetation or the submerged roots of trees.

PH: 5.5 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

Hardness: 5 – 20 dH

Description: Hyphessobrycon eques has a base red colour (including the caudal fin), with a black splotch around its gills. Its pelvic fin is also red but sports a white tip; the anal fin is largely red with black and white edging on the tip; whilst the dorsal fin is fantastic: a white base, large black area and white tip (looking almost feathered). The females lack the colouration in the bottom section of the dorsal fin, and will have wider bodies than their male counterparts.

The Callistus Tetra will grow to 4cm and are peaceful to other species. The males in a shoal will spend a lot of their time trying to gain rank over one another; however this will rarely result in injury or real aggression. Instead, they open their fins as wide as possible and circle around one another, with an occasional charge.

Diet: Its natural diet consists of small invertebrates, but will east anything in captivity. The diet should consist of flakes and granules with some small live and frozen foods.

Breeding: Hyphessobrycon eques can be bred like most Hemigrammus: in a group or in pairs. If breeding in a group, use half a dozen of each sex for the best results. Condition them with small live foods.

If wanting to use pairs, separate the groups of males and females into separate conditioning tanks. Condition them on small live foods and wait. When the females are showing that they are full of eggs, introduce the fattest female and most colourful male into the breeding tank. Do this in the evening and the following morning they will have spawned.

The breeding tank should be about 40L in size, with a pH of 5.5-6.5, dH of 1-5, and a temperature of 26-29°C. Use an air-powered sponge filter (small). Because the eggs are sensitive to light and the parents prefer to breed at night, ensure the tank is dimly lit. Use java moss, fine-leaved plants or spawning mops to give the parents somewhere to deposit their eggs.

Remove the parents immediately after spawning or their new eggs will become dinner. The eggs will hatch within two days and the fry will be happily swimming three to four days later. For the first couple of days feed them Infusoria but switch them to microworm or baby brine when they are big enough.

Comments: These are a hardy species to look after, and therefore any aquarist will find they have luck with them. If the tank is too small, they will begin to fight, so ensure you use at least a 40L tank (the more Serpae Tetras you own, the bigger the tank needs to be).

They can be kept in the general well-planted tank of most Hyphessobrycon species; but they will also enjoy an Amazonian biotope tank.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:16:30. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon ecuadorensis

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:30:08 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon ecuadorensis is endemic to the Guayas River basin in South America.

PH: 5.5 – 7.0 pH

Temperature: 24 – 27°C (75 – 81°F)

Hardness: 12 gdH

Description: Reaching a maximum length around 2cm, they are one of the smallest of the Tetra family. Hyphessobrycon ecuadorensis are similar to their relatives: generally peaceful and preferring to be kept in groups of at least 6.

This species have a silver body with a blue-green shimmery gleam under lights. The fin colour varies from pinks to red. The sexes can be differentiated through the finnage: the males sport a hooked anal fin and will often have more colourful fins.

Diet: Flakes and pellet foods are a good staple for the diet of your Hyphessobrycon ecuadorensis, however there will need to be a variety of both to keep them interested. If you want to show off their colours to their best, include frozen or live foods such as blood worms or brine shrimp. Remember to crush the flakes and pellets and to chop up the meaty food finely, as their mouths are tiny.

Breeding: Separate a year-old female and a year-old male into two conditioning tanks. They should be fed with insect larvae and Drosophila for two-to-three weeks, when they can then be introduced into a breeding tank. A 38L tank is sufficient size for the small Hyphessobrycon ecuadorensis.

The pair should spawn within three days – if not, repeat the process. Hypessobrycon ecuadorensis spawn into the leaves of the plants and should be removed immediately after the eggs are laid (cannibalistic). The eggs will hatch within 2 days, and the fry will be free-swimming a few days after that. The fry can be fed on micro-organisms and baby Brine Shrimp for the first ten days, and then on crushed flake foods. The water should be partially changed on a weekly basis.

Comments: When setting up an aquarium, you must include: dense plantation along sides and back; an open area for swimming in the centre; dimmed light (keep out of direct sunlight and use floating plants); a dark substrate (will make the colours pop); wood, shells, PVC pipes or other items to provide other hiding spaces; and it will require a slow to moderate current.

If you want to include live plants in the tank, ensure they have broad leaves. Hyphessobrycon ecuadorensis will nibble on the finer-leaved variety.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:06:18. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon frankei (Ucayali Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:29:55 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The common name of Hyphessobrycon frankei is derived from its home: the Ucayali River basin in South America.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: The base colouration of the Ucayali Tetra is iridescent silver, with a distinct white line that runs from the dorsal spine to the caudal peduncle. It parades pretty red anal, dorsal and adipose fins that have white bands. There is a black mark almost triangular in shape at the base of the caudal fin.

They are often confused with Hemigrammus heliacus, however the latter does not have red fins.

It is difficult to determine sexes. The best time to attempt it is during breeding season when the mature females appear slightly rounder than the males.

Growing to around 3.5cm, the Ucayali Tetra is, like many other Tetras, peaceful and prefers to be kept in groups of at least six.

Diet: Feed your Hyphessobrycon frankei once or twice a day on flakes and pellets with live and frozen foods such as insect larvae and blood worms.

Breeding: There is limited information available on the proper breeding method for Ucayali Tetra, so it is recommended that the general family method is followed.

Begin by setting up a pair of conditioning tanks, one housing a year-old male and the other a year-old female. Feed the pair on a diet of insect larvae and Drosophila. After two-to-three weeks, introduce the two into a breeding tank. Ensure a temperature of 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F), a pH of 6.5, and dH of 2 – 4; with no substrate but plenty of fine-leaved plants and a soft air-power filtration system such as a sponge or foam.

The pair should breed within three days. If not, repeat the conditioning process. Once eggs appear on the leaves of the plants, remove the parents from the breeding tank or else they will begin to consume them. The eggs with hatch after 24 hours and the fry will be swimming a few days later. Start them on micro-organisms and baby Brine Shrimp, and then crushed flake when they are large enough to accept it.

As it is unknown how light-sensitive the eggs are, it is recommended that they be kept in the dark.

Comments: The Ucayali Tetra requires a tank with dense plantation around a centre area of swimming space. They also enjoy tannin-stained water (achieved through driftwood and dead leaves (changed frequently to avoid rotting in the tank)).

Beginners may have luck with Hyphessobrycon frankei, and it will be no difficulty to those with experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:31:50. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Paracheirodon innesi (Neon Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:29:46 +0000

Information on Paracheirodon innesi (Neon Tetra) will be coming soon

Originally posted 2010-04-29 22:26:04. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon mutabilis

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:29:45 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon mutabilis choses to make its home in the Cerrado region of the Upper Xingu River basin of South America. It likes clear streams that are shallow, have sandy bottoms with some mud and thick vegetation.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82 °F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Still on the small end of the scale, Hyphessobrycon mutabilis won’t even reach 3cm when fully mature (2.7cm being the largest recorded). They can be identified by a think longitudinal stripe on its body, extending from the back of its head to the caudal fin rays. One end of the stripe is a dark metallic green which fades into a dark golden colour by the time it reaches the other. When the stripe ends at the caudal fin base, it continues into an elongated caudal spot which spills over the fin’s rays. The upper edge of the stripe is followed by a bright orange band of colour from the area around the dorsal fin to the caudal fin end. The intense colouration of Hyphessobrycon mutabilis doesn’t end there, with the fish also sporting red nostrils, pale yellow fins (with each caudal fin lobe displaying a bright yellow spot), and an eye that has a vibrant red on the upper three-quarters with gold below.

As they are unusual in the hobby, there is limited information available regarding social behaviours. However, if Hyphessobrycon mutabilis is anything like its relatives, it will be active, peaceful and prefer to be kept in schools of at least six.

Diet: Feed your Hypessobrycon mutabilis a diet that is rich in both flakes and live foods. Use flakes or pellets as their staple and treat them with the occasional live foods.

Breeding: As this fish is uncommon in the hobby, there are currently no breeding reports (successful or otherwise) available. If you want to give it a go, try the common Hyphessobrycon method.

Place a year old male and a year old female in separate conditioning tanks. Feed them on live food (blood worms, mosquito larvae, and the like) for three weeks before you introduce them into a breeding tank. Ensure the tank has fine-leaved plants, dim lighting, soft filtration and a warm temperature (26°C). It may take up to three days for the pair to spawn. If nothing has happened, repeat the conditioning process.

As it is unknown whether the eggs of the Hyphessobrycon mutabilis are light-sensitive or not, you should err on the side of caution and keep them in as much dark as possible.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon mutabilis is rare in the hobby and therefore there is limited information available. Subsequently, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species in general has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 07:36:52. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Boehlkea fredcochui (Blue Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:29:44 +0000

Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-05 01:19:02. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon khardinae

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:29:41 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon khardinae can be found in Brazil, South America.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82 °F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: A medium-sized Tetra, Hyphessobrycon khardinae is still tiny when compared to other species considering it will reach 4cm maximum.

This species is translucent and can be identified by a black triangular-shaped spot sitting behind the gills, slightly elongated. The upper region of the dorsal fin is black and sports a red tip. The adipose fin of Hyphessobrycon khardinae is red.

Diet: Start your Hyphessobrycon khardinae on an omnivorous diet of flakes or pellets occasionally mixed with live foods (the species tends to prefer bloodworms and insect larvae).

Breeding: It is rare in the hobby and therefore there is limited information available. Currently, there are no reports of attempts at breeding within captivity.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon khardinae is rare in the hobby and it will therefore be difficult to find in retail sales. Because of its rarity, there is a scarcity of information available. Due to this, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon family has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 06:15:35. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon heteresthes

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:29:34 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The only thing known about the distribution of Hyphessobrycon heteresthes is that it can be found Brazil, South America.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82 °F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: One of the tiniest of the Hyphessobrycon bunch, Hyphessobrycon heteresthes doesn’t even reach 2cm when fully mature. The family is generally peaceful, active and non-aggressive and there is no reason why Hyphessobrycon heteresthes should be any different. They are good additions to any community or species-specific tank.

As they are so uncommon, there is a lack of data such as colouration and specific social behaviours.

Diet: The Hyphessobrycon species thrive on omnivorous diets. Your Hyphessobrycon heteresthes will enjoy a diet that is primarily flakes or pellets with occasional live foods (such as bloodworms or mosquito larvae) as treats.

Breeding: Due to its rarity, successful captivity-bred reports have yet to be published. If you manage to find a pair and want to try it yourself, it is suggested you follow the general Hyphessobrycon method.

Err on the side of caution and keep the eggs of Hyphessobrycon heteresthes in as much dark as possible as it is unknown whether they are light-sensitive or not.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon heteresthes is uncommon in the hobby and therefore there is limited information available. Consequently, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species in general has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates. Do not put your Hyphessobrycon heteresthes in an environment with larger, more aggressive species.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 05:53:08. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon isiri

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:29:08 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon isiri is found in the Uruguay River basin, Argentina, South America. In one area it was located in two ponds on a farm that had a primary substrate of gravel and rock (with sand and mud in between), minimal current and moderate vegetation. These ponds had no light diffusion.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82 °F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Hyphessobrycon isiri is identifiable by a humeral spot that is perpendicularly elongated and a dark stripe that begins at the caudal fin (thick) and fades out before the humeral spot (thin).

As this species is so uncommon in the hobby, there is a lack of data such as colouration and specific social behaviours. The family is generally peaceful, active and non-aggressive and there is no indication that Hyphessobrycon isiri will be any different. They are good additions to any community or species-specific tank.

Diet: Hyphessobrycon species thrive on omnivorous diets. Your Hyphessobrycon isiri will enjoy a diet that is primarily flakes or pellets with occasional live foods as treats.

Err on the side of caution and keep the eggs of Hyphessobrycon isiri in as much dark as possible as it is unknown whether they are light-sensitive or not.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon isiri is uncommon in the hobby and therefore there is limited information available. Consequently, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species in general has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 06:09:45. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus microstomus

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:29:06 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hemigrammus microstomus are endemic to the central Amazon and Orinoco River basins in South America.

PH: 6.5 – 7 pH

Temperature: 23 – 27°C (74 – 80°F)

Hardness: 5 – 8 gdH

Description: Reaching a length of 4cm, Hemigrammus microstomus will thrive when kept in shoals of at least 6 (preferably over 10). The Hemigrammus species are generally peaceful, sociable, active fish which are perfect additions to community tanks.

Due to the rarity in captivity, there is very little information available pertaining to Hemigrammus microstomus. Therefore, data such as specific social habits, sexual dimorphia and colouring is unknown.

Diet: Try feeding your Hemigrammus microstomus an omnivorous diet. If you notice it refusing live foods, switch to a herbivorous diet.

Breeding: Hemigrammus microstomus is rare in captivity and therefore there is little information available. For these reasons, the generally-accepted Hemigrammus breeding method has been included.

The first step is to separate a year old male and female from the shoal and from one another. They should be conditioned on insect larvae. Set up a breeding tank that includes peat-filtered water, natural lighting, heavy plantation and a warmer temperature than the main tank. If spawning does not occur within three days of the pair being introduced in the breeding tank, repeat the process from the start. Change one of the partners if it fails for a second time.

Remove the parents immediately after spawning or they will consume the eggs. Feed the fry on very small food particles such as Infusoria, micro-organisms, baby brine shrimp and flake foods.

Comments: Use a general Hemigrammus set up that includes some plantation around the edges and back, whilst leaving a large open area in the middle for swimming space. Some light-diffusing, floating plants may also be beneficial.

They are not often seen for sale. De to their rarity, some information pertaining to the Hemigrammus species in general has been included.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-20 14:34:21. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon negodagua

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:28:51 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon negodagua inhabits the upper Paraguaçú River basin, South America.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28 °C (72 – 82 °F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Hyphessobrycon negodagua is a small Tetra, reaching only 2.8cm when mature. The family is generally peaceful, active and non-aggressive and there is no reason why Hyphessobrycon negodagua should be any different. They are good additions to any community or species-specific tank.

Unlike all but one other Hyphessobrycon species (that one being Hyphessobrycon taurocephalus) it does not have an adipose fin. The mature males can also be used to classify Hyphessobrycon negodagua as they have a high percentage of dark spots on the rear section of their bodies and by areas of white colouration on the tips of the anal and dorsal fins.

As they are uncommon in the hobby, there is a lack of information such as social behaviours.

Diet: The Hyphessobrycon species enjoy omnivorous diets. Your Hyphessobrycon negodagua will benefit from a diet that is primarily flakes or pellets with occasional live foods (such as bloodworms or mosquito larvae) as treats.

Err on the side of caution and keep the eggs of Hyphessobrycon negodagua in as much dark as possible as it is unknown whether they are light-sensitive or not.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon negodagua is uncommon in the hobby and therefore there is limited information available. Consequently, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species in general has been included.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 07:38:42. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon eos (Dawn Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:28:47 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: West-Guyana is where the Dawn Tetra makes its home.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)

Hardness: 15 gdH

Description: One of the smallest Tetras, Hyphessobrycon eos will only reach 2cm in the tank. Despite this, they have a bright metallic sheen that makes them extremely eye-catching. With a silver base colouration, they flash yellow or copper when in light. This gives them a similar appearance to the Yellow Tetra (Hyphessobrycon bifasciatus), except that the Dawn Tetra is a warmer yellow. When stressed (especially when transporting from the sale point to your home) they tend to become pale.

The only way to tell sexual dimorphism is in maturity, when the females become more rotund when ready to breed.

Keep your Hyphessobrycon eos is groups of 6 or more. They are suitable for community tanks, as they are peaceful and non-aggressive.

Diet: Be sure to chop up or crush all foods as they have such tiny mouths. A flake-and-pellet staple diet is suitable, with some frozen or live foods to encourage the best colouration. They are remarkably easy to feed as they will accept almost anything you give them.

Breeding: It is recommended that you follow a similar breeding pattern to that of Hyphessobrycon bifasciatus. Set up a breeding tank (38L will be sufficient) complete with fine-leaf plants. The parents will eat the eggs, so either remove them immediately after spawning or utilise a type of grid on the bottom so the eggs are unreachable. The fry will hatch in a day and can be fed on baby brine, egg yolk or very fine flakes.

However, if this fails, try conditioning the parents before introducing them to one another in the breeding tank.

Comments: The Dawn Tetra likes dense plantation on the back and along the sides, with a large swimming area in the centre. Use floating plants to diffuse the light. This fish will nibble of fine-leaved plants, so avoid using them (or be prepared to replace them constantly). They will also appreciate a tank that mimics their natural environment, so tan the water with dead leaves (replace them before they rot), peat-filter the water, and add a slow to moderate current. A dark substrate will make the colours of your Hyphessobrycon eos pop.

This fish is easy to keep, feed and breed, and therefore is suitable for an aquarist of any experience.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:12:04. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon igneus (Firefin Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:28:46 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The Firefin Tetra is found in the Parana River in Argentina, South America. It reportedly enjoys streams and tributaries found in mountains.

PH: 6.7 – 7.4 pH

Temperature: 21 – 24 °C (70 – 75 °F)

Hardness: 3 – 15 dH

Description: Another peaceful and active Hyphessobrycon species, the Firefin Tetra is on the lower end of the size scale, reaching 3-5cm when grown. Ensure you have at least six to shoal at a time, preferably more.

Yet again the females are bulkier than the males and miss out on the vibrancy of the male colouration. A translucent fish, Hyphessobrycon igneus displays a blue hue on its body and bright metallic blue tips to the distal portion of fins. The caudal fin lobes also have a splash of red from the base. Below the iris is a large blue pigmentation. A yellow line is apparent that runs from the head, skits across the eye and continues down to the base of the caudal fin.

Diet: Use a staple diet of flakes or pellets supplemented with live foods such as daphnia, micro worms or insect larvae.

Breeding: Whilst there are no reports of successful aquarium breeding, it is suggested that the method used to breed Hemigrammus boesemani is used.

Set up a separate breeding tank with a pH of 5.5 – 6.5, gH of 1 – 5, and temperature that is consistant with the normal tank. They prefer very dim lighting, so keep the tank out of direct sunlight and include floating plants for top cover and dense plantation around the sides. As the parents will eat the eggs, include some sort of mesh or netting at the bottom of the tank so the eggs may fall through but the parents cannot reach them. Remove the parents after spawning. Soft filtration is also required for the set up.

The eggs will hatch in just over 24 hours, and the fry will be swimming around 3-4 days later. Feed the fry on infusoria for the first few days and then move onto microworm or baby brine. Both eggs and fry are extremely sensitive to light, so keep the tank in as much darkness as possible.

Hemigrammus igneus may be spawned in groups (half a dozen of each sex) or in pairs.

Comments: The Firefin Tetra is adaptable and will survive in either an Amazonian biotope tank or in the general Hyphessobrycon one. If using a general set up, ensure the lighting is diffused, there is good plantation and that the water is tannin-stained (bogwood or leaves). It requires a tank of at least 70L.

Despite the hardiness of Hyphessobrycon igneus, it is rare in retail trade.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 06:03:40. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Gymnocorymbus ternetzi (Skirt Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:28:33 +0000

Gymnocorymbus ternetzi (Skirt Tetra)
Information will be coming soon

Originally posted 2009-11-05 03:50:09. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon megalopterus (Phantom Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:28:07 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Hyphessobrycon megalopterus makes its home in the Guapore River and the upper region of the Paraguay River system in Bolivia and Brazil. They prefer the dense plantation in clear water rivers.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5pH

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Hyphessobrycon megalopterus is one of the most elegant of their species. Their bodies are a dark blue-grey colour, with the scales have a dark edging. Sitting just behind the gills is a large, elongated somewhat-diamond-shaped spot. This spot is edged by a light silver-blue colour. The eyes of the Black Phantom Tetra are remarkable, with a single black line running vertically through it.

The finnage of the Black Phantom Tetra is what makes it most distinct amongst the Hyphessobrycon species. All the fins have black pigmentation (the caudal fins being darkest). The dorsal fins are fantastic, looking almost like large, flat sea-shells. They have an iridescent sheen to them, and a somewhat metallic-looking edging. The anal fin is extended and elongated. The males will develop a pointed dorsal fin when they have matured; whereas the females finally get an edge in colouration with red or orange edging to their adipose, anal and ventral fins. The females are, of course, plumper than the males.

When mature, Hyphessobrycon megalopterus will reach 4.5cm. It should be kept in schools of no less than five.

Diet: A flake-and-pellet staple diet is suitable, with some frozen or live foods (such as brine shrimp or bloodworm) to encourage the best colouration. Phantom Tetras are remarkably easy to feed as they will accept almost anything you give them.

Breeding: Two conditioning tanks should be established to house a one-year-old male and a one-year-old female. These should be conditioned on Drosophila and insect larvae for two-to-three weeks, before the duo can be introduced into a 45L breeding tank. To set up a breeding tank, include many fine-leaved plants and a soft filtration system, but do not use substrate. Use water with a pH of 5.5 – 6.5, a dH of 2 – 4, and a temperature of 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F). It is unknown if the eggs are light-sensitive, so it is best to keep them out of direct sunlight just in case.

It should take three days for the pair to spawn. If no eggs appear, recondition them. The eggs will appear in the leaves of the plants and the parents should be removed immediately after spawning as they are cannibalistic. A little over twenty-four hours after being laid, the eggs will hatch. The fry will appear few days later and should be fed on an initial diet of micro-organisms and baby Brine, and crushed flake ten days later.

The eggs and fry require partial water changes on a weekly basis as they are susceptible to illness in poor water conditions. Do not introduce the fry into the community tank until they are large enough to not be a meal.

Hemigrammus loretoensis may be spawned in groups (half a dozen of each sex) or in pairs. If using groups, follow the same conditioning process only have a tank of six females and a tank of six males. Then pick the plumpest female and most colourful male.

Comments: This is an easy fish to care for and breed and is therefore suitable for beginners. It is widely available commercially, but this is only because those specimens are bred in captivity. The wild-bred varieties are difficult to find.

Because it is commercially-bred, it is best suited a (40L) normal Hyphessobrycon tank that is well-planted, dimly lit and has some room to swim about. It can also thrive in an Amazonian biotope tank.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 06:40:12. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Thayeria ifati (Half-striped Penguin Tetra)

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:27:55 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: Thayeria ifati, sometimes called the Half-striped Penguin Tetra, is a pelagic freshwater species found in the Maroni and Approuague River basins, French Guiana. It is distributed in sandy-bottomed creeks, lentic waters and shallow, calm areas.

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 23°C – 28C (74 – 82F)

Hardness: 4 – 12 dH

Description: Thayeria ifati, a tiny species, reaches a maximum length of 3.5 cm in an aquarium. It is the rarest species in the Thayeria genus. Adult females can be sexed thanks to a more rounded belly and a duller colouration to males.

Diet: The Half-striped Penguin Tetras will eat live food in nature, including crustaceans and zooplankton. In an aquarium it should be given small, regular meals of bloodworm, Artemia and Daphnia, along with granules and dried flakes on occasions.

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information on the breeding habits of Thayeria ifati, given how rare the species is.

Comments: A small group of Thayeria ifati can be housed in a 70 litre tank. This species will appreciate a heavily planted tank with roots, rocks, stones and branches, along with a dark substrate. You could add some dried leaves to the tank to give it a more natural vibe. The Half-striped Penguin Tetra should be kept in a tank with dimmed lighting. This species is quite rare and is probably suited to those with experience in the hobby.

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: This chilled-out, peaceful species will not work well with large, aggressive tank mates. They will live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetraand Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppyand Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-01-26 21:22:17. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hemigrammus pretoensis

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:27:32 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: The upper Solimões River basin region is the origin of Hemigrammus pretoensis.

PH: 6.0 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 22 – 28°C (72 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2-15 gdH

Description: Hemigrammus pretoensis reaches 4.5cm. It is not elongated, instead looking like it has a distended stomach.

Hemigrammus species is usually peaceful and sociable. They thrive in shoals of at least 6-8 and are generally ideal additions to community tanks.

Diet: The exact diet of Hemigrammus pretoensis is unknown, but aquarists are advised to try an omnivorous diet and note the partiality of their species.

Breeding: Information regarding the general method of breeding the Hemigrammus species has been utilised, as it is uncommon to keep Hemigrammus pretoensis in captivity.

A pair of Hemigrammus pretoensis of at least one year of age should be separated (from both the shoal and from one another) and conditioned on insect larvae. Set up a breeding tank that has dense plantation, no artificial light, peat-filtered water and a slightly higher temperature. If the pair do not spawn within three days of being introduced into the breeding tank, repeat the process. If it still fails, try swapping one of the partners.

Breeding results will generally be quite high, if their natural pattern is anything to go by: in the wild, they can double their original population in a little over a year.

Comments: If intending to keep a single shoal of Hemigrammus pretoensis, a 40L tank is suitable. If you’re looking for a community tank, you need to at least double the tank size. Dense plantation around the sides and back is required, and some top floating plants to diffuse the lights; as is an open area in the middle for plenty of swimming space. A dark substrate will flaunt the colours of your Hemigrammus silimoni.

The Hemigrammus species is a fairly hardy one, and thus is suitable for an aquarist of any experience level.

Hemigrammus pretoensis is unusual in the hobby, there is a scarcity of information. Subsequently, general information regarding the Hemigrammus species has been included.

Article/Books:

Originally posted 2010-04-20 14:57:57. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Hyphessobrycon eilyos

ryan — Sat, 01 May 2010 01:27:30 +0000

Family: Characidae

Distribution: There is little known about the specific location of Hyphessobrycon eilyos, except tht it is endemic to Brazil, South America.

PH: 6 – 7.5 pH

Temperature: 23 – 28°C (73 – 82°F)

Hardness: 2 – 15 dH

Description: Hyphessobrycon eilyos will grow to about 2.5cm in the tank. It is behaves anything like its Hyphessobrycon counterparts, it will be active, peaceful and enjoy shoals of at least 6.

There are a variety of features that can be used to identify Hyphessobrycon eilyos. To begin with, it displays no lateral or caudal spots. It does, however, have a number of dark spots down the length of its body, with a high concentration from the start of the pelvic fin to the base of the caudal fin. The dorsal, adipose and caudal fins have a lovely red colouration.

Diet: The Hyphessobrycon species are omnivores and should be fed a diet that is mostly flake food, with bi-weekly treats of live or frozen foods.

Breeding: Due to the lack of available information regarding the specifics of Hyphessobrycon eilyos, the general method of breeding used for the Hyphessobrycon species has been included.

The pair should spawn within three days – if not, repeat the process. Hypessobrycon eilyos spawn into the leaves of the plants and should be removed immediately after the eggs are laid. The eggs will hatch within 2 days, and the fry will be free-swimming a few days after that. The fry can be fed on micro-organisms and baby Brine Shrimp for the first ten days, and then on crushed flake foods. The water should be partially changed weekly.

Comments: Hyphessobrycon balbus is rare in the hobby and therefore there is very little information available. For this reason, information pertaining to the Hyphessobrycon species in general has been used.

Due to the peacefulness of the Hyphessobrycon species, they are good fish for beginners (although you have to be enthusiastic to watch the breeding closely).

Article/Books:

Recommended Compatible Species: They should live happily with other Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Originally posted 2010-04-21 02:08:27. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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