African Spottail Tetra - Brachypetersius altus Fish Profile & Care Guide
Introduction
The African Spottail Tetra (Brachypetersius altus) is a small, peaceful freshwater fish belonging to the family Alestidae, commonly referred to as African tetras. Native to Central Africa, this lesser-known species is appreciated in the aquarium hobby for its iridescent body and calm temperament. Although not as widely kept as some of its relatives, B. altus can make a stunning addition to a well-planted community tank when provided with the right environment and care.
As a shoaling species, African Spottail Tetras thrive in groups. Keeping at least six individuals is recommended to encourage natural behaviour and reduce stress. In a group, these Tetras display coordinated swimming patterns and exhibit enhanced colouration. A larger shoal will also help distribute any aggression, though this species, known for its peaceful nature, is typically not a cause for concern.
Due to their gentle nature, African Spottail Tetras make excellent tankmates for other small to medium-sized peaceful fish. Suitable companions include other African Tetras, small Barbs, Rasboras, Corydoras Catfish, and Dwarf Cichlids such as Pelvicachromis pulcher. Avoid housing them with fin-nipping or significantly larger, aggressive species, which can lead to stress or injury.
African Spottail Tetras require an aquarium that closely mimics the soft, slow-moving waters of the Congo River Basin. A tank of at least 75 litres (20 gallons) is recommended to accommodate a small shoal, allowing sufficient space for natural swimming activity and social interaction. The water temperature should be kept between 22–26°C, with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral for optimal health.
The ideal setup includes a dark, sandy substrate, plenty of plants, driftwood, and leaf litter to create shaded areas and hiding spots. Gentle filtration is essential to avoid strong currents, and lighting should be subdued or diffused with floating plants to reduce stress. A tight-fitting lid is necessary, as this species may jump. Consistent water quality must be maintained through weekly 25–30% water changes, using dechlorinated water that matches tank parameters.
African Spottail Tetras are small, laterally compressed Tetras that typically reach a maximum standard length of around 5 to 6 cm in captivity. It features a silvery to slightly golden body with a faint iridescent quality, particularly noticeable under aquarium lighting. A distinguishing feature is the presence of a dark blotch at the back end of the body, though this can vary in intensity depending on the fish. The dorsal and anal fins are fairly short and may exhibit subtle red, orange, or yellow tinges, especially in well-conditioned specimens.
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Sexual Dimorphism
Sexual dimorphism in African Spottail Tetras is subtle. Males may be slightly slimmer and more vividly coloured, particularly during spawning periods. Females of this species tend to have a rounder abdomen when carrying eggs. However, accurate sexing is best done by observing behaviour during courtship and breeding.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Brachypetersius altus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1899 |
| Other Names | Altus Tetra |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Alestidae |
| Genus | Brachygobius |
| Origins | Democratic Republic of the Congo |
| Approx Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 3 - 10 |
| KH | 1 - 5 |
| TDS | 100 - 200 |
| ℉ | 72 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
The African Spottail Tetra is endemic to the Middle Congo River Basin in Central Africa and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These Tetras inhabit slow-moving tributaries and forest streams. These habitats are typically shaded with abundant leaf litter, submerged roots, and soft, slightly acidic water.
Breeding
Breeding African Spottail Tetras in captivity is possible but requires specific conditions. As egg scatterers, they release eggs among fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Soft, slightly acidic water and a separate breeding tank can improve success rates. The adults should be removed post-spawning to prevent egg predation. The eggs generally hatch within 24 to 48 hours, after which you can initially feed the fry with infusoria. As they grow, their diet should gradually transition to include newly hatched brine shrimp for optimal development.
Diet & Feeding
In the wild, African Spottail Tetras feed on small invertebrates, zooplankton, and organic detritus. In captivity, they readily adapt to a varied diet consisting of high-quality flake foods, micro pellets, and live or frozen options like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. A diverse diet helps maintain health and colouration and encourages breeding activity.
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Published: 23 May 2025
Last Updated: 23 May 2025