Pastel Lily Tetra - Astyanax xavante Fish Profile & Care Guide
Introduction
Pastel Lily Tetras (Astyanax xavante) are generally considered peaceful and can coexist harmoniously with other small and peaceful species in a community aquarium. It is important to avoid housing them with aggressive or boisterous tankmates to prevent stress and potential aggression.
To accommodate Pastel Lily Tetras in captivity, a well-planted aquarium with ample hiding spots, such as driftwood and caves, should be provided. The tank should be maintained at stable water parameters, and regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality.
Pastel Lily Tetras have brownish heads and bodies, with the side of the head being cream. Their flanks above the lateral line are also brownish, and the lower flank is greenish-silver. Their operculum region and ventral trunk area are whitish, and they have two vertical, brown humeral spots, a brown stripe on the flank, and a black spot on the middle caudal-fin rays.
The fish's dorsal fin is translucent, with some of the rays towards the end being blackish or not. The anal fin is also clear, with the tips of the rays being blackish. The caudal fin lobes are slightly blackish or translucent, while the middle rays of the caudal fin are black. The adipose, pectoral, and pelvic fins are translucent or somewhat blackish.
Overall, Pastel Lily Tetras are a captivating addition to the freshwater aquarium, showcasing their vibrant colours and graceful swimming behaviour. While specific information about this species is still emerging, providing suitable care and a compatible environment can promote their well-being and allow enthusiasts to appreciate their beauty and charm. As scientific knowledge advances, continued research and expert guidance will further enhance our understanding of this mesmerizing Tetra species.
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Sexual Dimorphism
There is limited information available on the sexual dimorphism of Pastel Lily Tetras. In general, many Tetra species exhibit subtle sexual dimorphism, which may be challenging to discern without close observation or expert analysis.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Astyanax xavante |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 2009 |
| Other Names | Xavante Tetra |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Astyanax |
| Origins | Brazil |
| Approx Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 8+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 4 - 10 |
| KH | 2 - 6 |
| ℉ | 73 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 23 - 28 |
Natural Habitat
Pastel Lily Tetras are indigenous to the middle Araguaia River Drainage situated in the Cerrado region of the Brazilian Central Plateau. These Tetras inhabit clear and moderately flowing waters favouring areas with rocky or sandy substrates and abundant vegetation.
In the wild, they can be found occupying the water surface and seeking refuge among submerged roots and branches. These Tetras are known to form schools of varying sizes, ranging from a few individuals to gatherings of up to approximately 150 fish.
Breeding
There is limited specific information available on the breeding habits of Pastel Lily Tetras; however, in general, Astyanax species are known to be egg-scattering spawners, where the female releases her eggs into the water, and the male fertilizes them externally. After spawning, the parents do not provide any parental care, and the eggs are left to develop independently.
To encourage breeding in an aquarium setting, providing suitable conditions is essential. This includes having a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and visual barriers, such as fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Stable water parameters, including temperature, pH, and water quality, should be maintained to support successful breeding.
Observing the behaviour of the fish is crucial to identifying signs of breeding readiness. Male tetras may exhibit more vibrant colours and engage in courtship behaviours to attract females. Once spawning occurs, the eggs will scatter and adhere to various surfaces, such as plants or substrate.
To ensure the best chances of successful breeding, it is advisable to separate the adult fish from the eggs or fry, as they may consume them. The eggs will typically hatch within a few days, and the fry will require suitable powdered foods, microworms and baby brine shrimp until they are large enough to eat regular fish food.
Diet & Feeding
The diet of Pastel Lily Tetras typically consists of a varied and balanced mix of foods to support their health and well-being. As omnivorous fish, they consume both plant matter and small aquatic animals in their natural habitat.
In the aquarium setting, their diet can be replicated with a combination of high-quality dried foods, such as flakes or pellets, supplemented with live and frozen foods. Some suitable live and frozen foods for American Tetras include brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, mosquito larvae, and small insects. These foods provide essential nutrients and replicate their natural feeding behaviour.
In addition to live and frozen foods, offering vegetable-based foods, such as spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini, is beneficial to meet their plant-based nutritional needs. Feeding should be done in small amounts once or twice a day that they can consume within a few minutes.
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Published: 07 Aug 2023
Last Updated: 07 Aug 2023