Family: Characidae
Distribution: Triportheus rotundatus, commonly known as the Catalina Tetra, is a benthopelagic freshwater species found in South America’s Amazon River basin and in coastal drainages of the Guianas. It can generally be found in rivers and creeks that have very little current.
PH: 6.0 – 7.5
Temperature: 24°C – 27C (75 – 81F)
Hardness: 1 – 18
Description: Triportheus rotundatus can reach a maximum length of about 18 cm. This deep-bodied species has a mostly silver colouration and 5 – 6 brown, longitudinal stripes; its snout and dorsal portion of the head are both of a dark colour. It has a dark anal-fin margin and very dark middle caudal-fin rays. Young Catalina Tetras will have large dark blotches along their body that will fade with age into a pure silver colour.
Diet: Triportheus rotundatus is a surface feeding creature that will take similar foods to most Triportheus species, particularly aquatic insects, detritus and vegetable fragments. It will eat flakes, but it loves bloodworms, brine shrimp and mosquito larvae.
Breeding: Like so many members of its genus, there is not a great deal of information available on the breeding habits of Triportheus rotundatus. It appears it is yet to be bred in an aquarium environment. In the wild, this species will reproduce during the rainy season.
Comments: Triportheus rotundatus should be housed in a tank at least 180 litres in volume or larger. You should have plenty of large, open swimming areas near the top of your tank. Do not add floating plants to your tank as they will simply be obstacles. Make sure you put in several hiding spaces in the form of driftwood, plants and rocks. Be careful if moving the Catalina Tetra between tanks as it is very sensitive to changes in water parameters. This species does require moderate care and it is recommended to experienced hobbyists.
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Recommended Compatible Species: Triportheus rotundatus is a very active species that will dwell at the top of the tank and ignore those tank mates below. Peaceful, middle-bottom dwelling species are recommended as tank mates.
Originally posted 2010-01-27 02:39:55. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
