Phoenix Tetra - Hemigrammus filamentosus Fish Profile & Care Guide
Introduction
The Phoenix Tetra (Hemigrammus filamentosus) is a small yet stunning species that has captured the hearts of many aquarium enthusiasts. Not only are they peaceful and hardy, but they are also incredibly active and constantly on the move, adding liveliness to any tank. To keep them happy and healthy, it is recommended to keep Phoenix Tetras in groups of 8 or more, as they are a shoaling species in nature.
Phoenix Tetras are known for their peaceful nature and can coexist with a variety of tank mates, including other small Tetras, Livebearers, Danios, Rasboras, Dwarf Cichlids, Corydoras Catfish, and Plecos. However, it's important to avoid larger, aggressive fish that may bully or outcompete them for food.
For their optimal environment, a soft, dark sandy substrate is ideal, along with driftwood, leaf litter, and live plants to provide hiding places and low lighting that mimics their natural habitat. A densely planted tank not only provides them with cover but also helps to de-stress them. A small air-powered sponge filter or hang-on-back power filter is sufficient for filtration, and a consistent temperature maintained by an aquarium heater is necessary as they are tropical fish. It's important to monitor their aquarium environment and conduct regular water changes to keep it clean.
The Phoenix Tetra has a silvery-grey body with a delicate gold sheen, which perfectly complements its beautiful, elongated red dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins with white extensions. In conclusion, with their stunning appearance, peaceful nature, and active behaviour, Phoenix Tetras are the perfect addition to any aquarium. Just ensure they are kept in a suitable environment with compatible tank mates and provided with a varied diet to keep them healthy and happy.
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Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Phoenix Tetras is a straightforward task. The male of the species features a striking red hue and longer filaments on the fins, while the female has a translucent caudal fin.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hemigrammus filamentosus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 2011 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Hemigrammus |
| Origins | Brazil |
| Approx Max Size | 4 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 10+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 12 |
| KH | 4 - 8 |
| ℉ | 75 - 78 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 23 - 25 |
Natural Habitat
Phoenix Tetras hail from the Rio Araguaya Basin in Brazil, nestled in the heart of South America. The Phoenix Tetra is known for its exquisite taste in habitat. These aquatic marvels tend to gravitate towards slow-moving ponds, lakes, and rivers with a dark substrate and plenty of lush vegetation. This type of environment provides both protection and a bountiful food source, allowing the Phoenix Tetra to thrive in their natural habitat.
Breeding
In order to breed the stunning Phoenix Tetra, a separate breeding tank with specific conditions is required. The breeding tank should be dimly lit with soft water and heavily planted to provide covered areas for the fish to spawn. The temperature should also be raised a few degrees higher than usual, and a small air-powered filter is needed for filtration and gentle movement of the water.
To ensure the healthiest and strongest offspring, it's essential to carefully select the best-coloured male and the strongest female and provide them with high-quality, protein-rich live and frozen foods to encourage spawning. The Phoenix Tetra will typically spawn in the early morning, with the female laying a couple of hundred eggs on available plants, which the male will fertilize.
Once spawning is complete, it's recommended to remove the parents from the breeding tank to avoid egg consumption. After approximately 24 to 36 hours, the eggs will hatch, and the fry will become free-swimming 3 to 4 days later. Proper care and feeding with small live foods like brine shrimp or infusoria will be necessary during this early development stage to ensure the fry's optimal health and growth.
Diet & Feeding
The Phoenix Tetras are an adaptable species when it comes to their dietary requirements. They can thrive on a balanced diet that includes high-quality flakes and granules. To provide them with optimal nutrition and maintain their best health, it is also advisable to supplement their diet with live, frozen, and freeze-dried food such as daphnia, bloodworms, and brine shrimp.
Feeding these additional foodstuffs to the Phoenix Tetras will provide essential nutrients that are not present in the dried foods, which will help to enhance their vibrant colours and overall condition. Regular feeding of these types of food will keep your Phoenix Tetras healthy and active and ensure they live a long and happy life.
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Published: 07 Sep 2020
Last Updated: 14 Aug 2023