Morse Code Tetra (Hemigrammus sp morse code)
Unfortunately, not much information is available on the Morse Code Tetras, and they are yet to be described by scientists. They are also not very popular in the aquarium hobby due to the price tag for such a small fish.
However, we do know that these Tetras are small peaceful fish that have unique behaviours unlike any other species in the genus Hemigrammus. For example, Morse Code Tetras choose to hide under the shade of aquatic plants and remain still compared to other tetras that form tight schools in the open.
Morse Code Tetras are perfect for the nano or planted aquarium, and they thrive in medium to hard water; however, they need softer water in order to spawn.
These fish would probably not make ideal members of the community aquarium; instead, it would be better to house them with other small peaceful, non-aggressive species of a similar size.
Morse Code Tetras have translucent bodies with a shimmering gold tint on their face and stomachs. These Tetras get their name from the lines on the flank, which are reminiscent of a Morse code. Most of their fins are also clear, except for the dorsal fin that has black and yellow markings. In some individuals, there is also some slight red shading around their eyes.
Photos
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hemigrammus sp morse code |
| Other Names | None |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Hemigrammus |
| Origins | |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Lifespan | 2 - 4 years |
| Water Parameters | |
|---|---|
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| PH | 5.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 3 - 15 |
| KH | 2 - 6 |
| Temperature | |
|---|---|
| 72 - 81℉ 22.2 - 27.2℃ | |
Feeding
In the home aquarium, the Morse Code Tetra will readily accept most good quality dried foods such as granules, flakes and sinking pellets. These modern food products have been developed to provide all adequate nutrition to maintain your fish's health and dietary requirements.
Providing additional foodstuffs such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried meals such as bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week will provide additional benefits to your fish's health and well-being but is not a must for this fish.
It should be noted that bloodworms should only be given as an occasional treat and should not be used as the staple diet as they are difficult for fish to digest and can potentially cause blockages.
This fish is an omnivore in the wild, meaning it will consume some vegetable matter. Although most modern fish foods take this into account and include them in their products, you can still supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. Ensure you do not overfeed your fish and remove any leftovers the following day.
Sexual Dimorphism
It is relatively straightforward to differentiate between male and female Morse Code Tetras. Males are generally slightly smaller and more slender than females, whereas females are larger than males and have more rounded bellies.