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Maximum size : 7 cm
Red Eye Tetra - Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Red Eye Tetra (Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae) is a great addition to any community aquarium. These peaceful and active fish are perfect for beginner aquarists who want to add elegance to their tank. Red Eye Tetras are tough enough to hold their ground and big enough not to become prey to other species. In their natural habitat, Red Eye Tetras are schooling fish, so keeping them in groups of at least six individuals is essential. Doing so will create a natural display and prevent aggression towards other fish species. You can add similarly sized Tetras, larger Rasboras, Rainbowfish, Barbs, and most Danios, as well as bottom dwellers such as Corydoras Catfish and Botia Loaches, to make ideal tankmates. Red Eye Tetras will thrive in most well-maintained tanks, but they prefer a less bright lighting and a moderately decorated environment. You can create a stunning aquascape by mimicking an Amazonian biotope setup with a sandy substrate, driftwood branches, and twisted roots. Adding dried leaves such as beech or oak will create a natural feel. Red Eye Tetras have a bright silver body with black coloring on the base of their caudal fin edged with white. Additionally, they have a thin bright red circle around their eye, making them an attractive species to add to your aquarium.Red Eye Tetra Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between a male and female Red Eye Tetra may pose some difficulty. Nonetheless, a few physical differences can aid in sex identification. Females, particularly those carrying eggs, tend to be slightly larger than males and display a more rotund abdominal region.Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1907 |
| Other Names | lamp eye tetra. |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Moenkhausia |
| Origins | Uruguay Paraguay Brazil Argentina |
| Max Size | 7 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Layer |
| Lifespan | 3 - 5 years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 5.5 - 8.5 |
| GH | 5 - 20 |
| KH | 4 - 8 |
| TDS | 100 - 200 |
| ℉ | 75 - 85 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 23.9 - 29.4 |
Natural Habitat
Red Eye Tetras are native to Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, located in South America. Red Eye Tetras are commonly found in the Sao Francisco, upper Paraná, Paraguay, and Uruguay River Basins, located in eastern and central South America. They typically inhabit moderately flowing, clear waters of big rivers but can also be found in the thick vegetation of the murky Amazon. Adding Red Eye Tetras to your aquarium is an excellent way to showcase their unique beauty and contribute to their conservation efforts. So why wait? Explore the wonders of Red Eye Tetras and bring a touch of South America into your home today!\r\n
São Francisco River - Brazil
