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Maximum size : 6 cm

Glass Bloodfin Tetra - Prionobrama filigera : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide

Table of contents

Introduction

The Glass Bloodfin Tetra (Prionobrama filigera) is a serene and relatively energetic schooling species that you can comfortably house with a multitude of other fish species that enjoy comparable water conditions, making them an exceptional choice for community aquariums. Their robustness also renders them an ideal option for novice aquarists seeking to bolster their aquatic repertoire. While rival males may occasionally spar, keeping these Tetras in groups of at least six to eight individuals will circumvent such scuffles, ensuring a harmonious coexistence. Ideal tankmates for these Tetras are other Characins of similar size, smaller Loricariid Catfish, Apistogramma, Corydoras, Mikrogeophagus, and, in suitably sized aquariums, even slightly larger Cichlids like Discus or Angelfish. It is, however, advisable to avoid larger, more boisterous species that inhabit similar tank spaces, as they tend to instigate stress and cause the Tetras to withdraw when competing for swimming space and food. While not the most flamboyantly coloured Tetras, the Glass Bloodfin Tetra remains a striking species. With its elongated, svelte body, entirely transparent except for its scarlet tail, the Tetra allows you to glimpse its stomach, brain, and bones while occasionally displaying a beautiful bluish iridescence when swimming under the light.

Glass Bloodfin Tetra Photos

Sexual Dimorphism

Distinguishing between male and female Glass Bloodfin Tetras is a relatively straightforward task. Males typically possess a slender physique and exhibit a hooked appearance at the onset of their anal fin. Additionally, well-conditioned males often display a dark stripe on their anal fin, accompanied by slightly elongated anal and dorsal fins. Conversely, females tend to have a fuller body, particularly during the breeding season and are noticeably more significant than their male counterparts.

Quick Facts

Scientific NamePrionobrama filigera
Year Described1870
Other NamesNone
ClassificationActinopterygii
OrderCharaciformes
FamilyCharacidae
GenusPrionobrama
OriginsEcuador Colombia Brazil Bolivia
Max Size6 cm
TemperamentPeaceful
Aquarium LevelMiddle - Top
DifficultyBeginner
ShoalingYes
Best kept asGroups 6+
DietOmnivore
ReproductionEgg-Scatterer
Lifespan5 - 7 years

Water Parameters

Water TypeFreshwater
PH6.0 - 7.5
GH5 - 20
KH
TDS
Temperature
73 - 81
22.8 - 27.2

Natural Habitat

The mesmerizing Glass Bloodfin Tetras are native to the rich and diverse aquatic ecosystems of the Amazon Basin, found in countries such as Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil and Bolivia. In their natural habitat, these fish tend to avoid the main river channels and prefer the tranquillity of small creeks, streams, and tributaries. Here, they thrive amongst thick aquatic vegetation and under the shaded canopies of trees, creating an inspiring sight to behold.

Breeding

To breed Glass Bloodfin Tetras, a separate breeding tank is necessary to raise a significant number of fry. This tank should be dimly lit and include clumps of fine-leaved plants like Hornwort, Java Moss or Anacharis, or even spawning mops, providing a suitable surface for the Tetras to deposit their eggs. Alternatively, covering the tank base with mesh would do the trick, with openings big enough for eggs to fall through but small enough to prevent adult fish from reaching them. The water parameters play a significant role in the breeding of Glass Bloodfin Tetras. The water should be soft and acidic with a pH range between 6.0-7.0, a general hardness of 1-5, and a temperature between 80 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Filtration is not necessary; however, a small air-powered sponge filter bubbling away very gently will provide an excellent food source for the fry. Spawning in a group is one method of breeding Glass Bloodfin Tetras, with six individuals of each sex being the ideal number. Conditioning the fish with small live or frozen foods will help induce spawning. Alternatively, you can breed them in pairs, preparing the fish in separate tanks according to their sex. Once the females are gravid and the males display their best colours, select the fattest and best-coloured male and transfer them to the breeding tank in the evening. Spawning should occur the following day. Removing the parents immediately after spawning is essential, as adult Tetras tend to eat their eggs. The eggs will usually hatch between 14 and 36 hours, depending on the temperature of the water, and the fry will become free-swimming after 3-4 days. It is crucial to provide the fry with infusoria-type foods for the first few days until they are large enough to accept microworm or baby brine shrimp.

Diet & feeding

The upward curvature of the mouth and slightly concave body contour suggest that this particular Tetra species predominantly consume small invertebrates sourced from the water's surface in its natural habitat. When housed in an aquarium setting, these Tetras exhibit a preference for live and frozen sustenance, including brine shrimp, cyclops, daphnia, mosquito larvae, and bloodworms. However, to ensure optimal health and vibrancy of colouration, it is strongly recommended to incorporate a diverse diet, encompassing dried alternatives like micropellets and flakes, which are also readily accepted by these fish.

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