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.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hemigrammus sp morse code |
| Other Names | None |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Hemigrammus |
| Origins | South America |
| 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℃ | |
Natural Habitat
Again, unfortunately, there is no information about the Morse Code Tetras natural habitat; however, it is thought that they prefer slow-flowing waters with plenty of vegetation and hanging trees for shade.
Other Tetras of interest
What to feed the Morse Code Tetra
Morse Code Tetras will eat a variety of foods. However, due to their tiny mouths, it is essential that you feed them with small, suitably sized foods and vary their diet.
These Tetras will readily accept good quality dried food such as crushed flakes and micro pellets alongside frozen, live and freeze-dried food such as brine shrimp, daphnia and mosquito larvae. However, these Tetras will not eat any food that falls to the bottom of the aquarium; therefore, you must make sure you do not overfeed them; otherwise, the water may come polluted.
How to Sex the Morse Code Tetra
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.
How to Breed the Morse Code Tetra
Unfortunately, there are no records or reports of Morse Code Tetras being successfully bred in the home aquarium. However, they would probably produce in the same fashion as other Hemigrammus species.