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Maximum size : 6 cm
Penguin Tetra - Thayeria boehlkei : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Penguin Tetra (Thayeria boehlkei) is not only a beautiful but also a fascinating fish to observe. Their unique swimming and resting motions, combined with their striking appearance, make them stand out in any aquarium. As a peaceful and hardy species, they are an excellent choice for beginners or experienced hobbyists looking to add some liveliness to their tank. To provide optimal care for these fish, a densely planted aquarium is recommended, with high-quality filtration to maintain water quality. The Penguin Tetra is typically olive in colour with a striking black line running down the lateral and into the tail fin. Their belly is silver, providing a stunning contrast to the rest of their body.Penguin Tetra Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
It is relatively easy to distinguish male and female Penguin Tetras. Once they reach maturity, males exhibit more vivid and intense colours than females. Additionally, females tend to have a plumper and more rounded belly and a less pronounced colouration.Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Thayeria boehlkei |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1957 |
| Other Names | Hockey Stick Tetra and Blackline Tetra |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Thayeria |
| Origins | Peru Brazil |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Lifespan | 3 - 5 |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 4 -18 |
| KH | |
| TDS | 71.43 - 32 |
| ℉ | 72 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22.2 - 27.8 |
Natural habitat
The Penguin Tetra originates from the pristine waters of the Upper Amazon River Basin and Araguaia Rivers in South America. These captivating fish can be found in small freshwater streams and rivers, which are often adorned with lush vegetation and smooth river rocks. The riverbeds are typically covered with small stones, driftwood roots, and a dark sandy substrate - creating the perfect environment for these striking creatures to thrive. If you're looking to add a touch of South American flair to your aquarium, the Penguin Tetra is an excellent choice. With their captivating appearance and charming personalities, these fish are sure to add a touch of excitement to any aquatic setting.
Araguaia River - Brazil
How to breed the Penguin Tetra
Breeding Penguin Tetras is relatively easy, given that you provide a suitable environment for them to spawn. This entails having thick plants or moss on the aquarium's substrate to protect the eggs and fry. Feeding them live foods and keeping several males and females will help stimulate mating. A female can lay hundreds of eggs, which typically hatch within 24 hours. To prevent the eggs and fry from being consumed, it is advisable to remove the parents from the aquarium after spawning.Diet & feeding
Penguin Tetras are omnivorous and will happily accept a variety of commercial foods such as flakes, granules, and pellets. Live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms can also be included in their diet to provide extra nutrition. It is important to note that their small mouths require smaller-sized food to ensure proper digestion. In addition to prepared foods, algae and other vegetable matter can be added to their diet to provide essential nutrients. Including a variety of foods in their diet will help promote optimal health and overall well-being.Other Tetras you maybe interested in
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