Profile Photo

Maximum size : 7 cm

Buenos Aires Tetra - Hyphessobrycon anisitsi : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide

Table of contents

Introduction

The Buenos Aires Tetra (Hyphessobrycon anisitsi) is a relatively peaceful, hardy, and active fish, making it an ideal choice for beginner hobbyists and community aquariums. These Tetras are robust and long-lived, requiring no special needs or conditions to thrive. It is crucial to keep these fish well-fed to minimize fin-nipping with long-finned tankmates. Keeping them in schools can further reduce this behavior. However, be aware that they may consume live aquarium plants. The Buenos Aires Tetra's unique blend of size and agility makes them an excellent choice for cohabiting with territorial species such as small Central American Cichlids or Eartheaters. These tetras serve as a helpful target for aggression, ensuring a harmonious environment, provided the aquarium is spacious enough for them to retreat to safety. Buenos Aires Tetras are characterized by their silvery color with neon highlights. The anal and pelvic fins, along with the top and bottom of the tail fin, often exhibit a red hue. A hint of red can also be found on the dorsal fin. Their most distinctive feature is a bold, black cross pattern on the caudal peduncle. An Albino variant of this species is also available.

Buenos Aires Tetra Photos

Sexual Dimorphism

Identifying male and female Buenos Aires Tetras is relatively straightforward. Females typically have a larger, fuller-bodied appearance with a more rounded stomach, while males often exhibit more vivid red fins, which may occasionally lean towards yellow.

Quick Facts

Scientific NameHyphessobrycon anisitsi
Year Described1907
Other NamesDiamond Spot Characin, Red Cross Fish
ClassificationActinopterygii
OrderCharaciformes
FamilyCharacidae
GenusHyphessobrycon
OriginsArgentina Paraguay Brazil
Max Size7 cm
TemperamentSemi-Aggressive
Aquarium LevelMiddle - Top
DifficultyBeginner
ShoalingYes
Best kept asGroups 5+
DietOmnivore
ReproductionEgg-Scatterer
Lifespanup to 5 year

Water Parameters

Water TypeFreshwater
PH6.0 - 8.0
GH2 - 35
KH
TDS
Temperature
64 - 82
17.8 - 27.8

The Buenos Aires Tetra has been featured on the following stamps.

Natural habitat

The Buenos Aires Tetra is a captivating species that originates from the La Plata region of South America, specifically Argentina, Paraguay, and Southeastern Brazil. In their natural habitat, these stunning fish inhabit a variety of aquatic environments, including slow-moving ponds, lakes, streams, and two major rivers - the Uruguay and Parana. As a freshwater species, the Buenos Aires Tetra is highly sensitive to polluted or highly salty waters. To thrive, these fish require a pristine and balanced aquatic environment that mimics their natural habitat as closely as possible. Whether you are an experienced aquarist or a newcomer to the world of fishkeeping, the Buenos Aires Tetra is a wonderful species to consider. From their vibrant appearance to their unique environmental requirements, these captivating fish are sure to delight and fascinate anyone who encounters them.

How to breed the Buenos Aires Tetra

Buenos Aires Tetras are relatively simple to breed and require no parental care, making them an ideal choice for novice aquarists. To breed this species, set up a separate dimly-lit breeding tank with ample plant coverage, such as java moss or an equivalent substitute; spawning mops can also serve as suitable alternatives. The female will need locations to deposit her eggs. The water conditions should be slightly acidic, soft, and a couple of degrees warmer than their average temperature. A small air-powered filter will provide gentle water movement and filtration. Buenos Aires Tetras can be bred in small groups or as pairs, and it is best to select the most brightly colored fish and feed them a generous amount of small live foods for optimal results. Spawning typically occurs at dawn, with females laying eggs on the plants. After the eggs have been laid, promptly remove the parents to prevent them from consuming the eggs. The eggs will begin to hatch within 24 to 36 hours, and the fry will become free-swimming around 3 to 4 days later.

Diet & feeding

Buenos Aires Tetras readily accept a diverse range of foods, including dried, flake, and freeze-dried options. To ensure optimal health, condition, and coloration, provide them with live foods such as daphnia, bloodworm, mosquito larvae, and brine shrimp. Feeding these fish multiple times per day is recommended, but it is crucial to offer small portions during each feeding session.

Other Tetras you maybe interested in