Family: Alestidae
Distribution: Brycinus longipinnus, commonly known as the Longfin Tetra, is a species distributed in big rivers – in the upper and lower reaches – and in estuarine zones; it is the only Brycinus species to reside in small streams and rivers. It is found in Africa’s Atlantic border, from Gambia to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
PH: 6.0 – 8.0
Temperature: 22°C – 26°C (72 – 79F)
Hardness: 5 – 19 dH
Description: Brycinus longipinnus has a maximum length of 12 cm in length and can be expected to live for 3 – 5 years. It has a red eye, silver sides and big scales. This species has a nice, subtle blue-green colouration – with a hint of yellow, depending on the lighting – and a distinctive, black horizontal line that extends from about halfway to the base of its tail. The male may have a long dorsal fin that can stretch as far back as beyond the tail.
Diet: The Longfin Tetra is omnivorous and will enjoy flake food as a base food. You should supplement this diet with blood worms, brine shrimp and other live foods to maintain optimal health. This species appears to feed mainly at the surface.
Breeding: Before attempting to breed this species, you should feed the adults a live-food diet. When ready to spawn, males will chase the females around the tank and spawn when light first hits the tank in the morning. The eggs will be scattered around everywhere. You might consider providing fresh, softened water and removing the adults when you can see the eggs. The fry, when hatched, have small mouths, and will require infusoria for a few days before accepting newly hatched brine shrimp. This fish is very hard to breed in captivity.
Comments: The Longfin Tetra should be given plenty of swimming space and housed in at least a 30 gallon tank. Keep your tank clean and well oxygenated, while maintaining plenty of water changes. Make sure you provide plenty of hiding spaces for this species to feel comfortable.
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species: Brycinus longipinnus can be kept in a one-species tank in groups of at least five. This species can be housed 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 Gouramiand 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 2010-01-05 11:56:33. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
