Profile Photo
Maximum size : 15 cm
Red Tail Hemiodus Tetra - Hemiodus gracilis : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Red Tail Hemiodus Tetra (Hemiodus gracilis) is a strikingly beautiful fish that are often misunderstood as semi-aggressive, but their nervous nature and fast-swimming habits can sometimes intimidate smaller, slower-moving fish. Despite their intimidating size and speed, Red Tail Hemiodus Tetras are peaceful, shoaling fish that prefer to be kept in groups of ten or more individuals in a well-established aquarium. These Tetras can be kept in a community tank with similarly-sized, peaceful species like rainbowfish, Discus, Bala Sharks, and Angelfish, but should not be housed with much smaller fish. Because Red Tail Hemiodus Tetras require pristine water conditions, they are not recommended for beginner aquarists. Maintaining a large aquarium and regularly doing partial water changes are essential for their health and well-being. These Tetras have a sturdy body with a slightly flattened side and a deeply forked tail. Their silvery body color has greenish tones, and they have a distinctive black band running along the lower edge of their caudal fin. Below the black band, there is an intense red stripe that adds a beautiful pop of color to their appearanceRed Tail Hemiodus Tetra Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Determining the sex of the Red Tail Hemiodus Tetra is an arduous task, as there are no notable differences in physical characteristics between males and females. However, it is speculated that mature females may have a more rounded belly compared to males.Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hemiodus gracilis |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1864 |
| Other Names | Slender Hemiodus, Red Hemiodus Tetra |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Hemiodontidae |
| Genus | Hemiodus |
| Origins | Guyana Brazil Venezuela |
| Max Size | 15 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 10+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Lifespan | up to 8 years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 5.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 4 - 15 |
| KH | |
| TDS |
| ℉ | 72 - 80 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22.2 - 26.7 |
Natural habitat
The Red Tail Hemiodus Tetra is a mesmerizing fish native to the vibrant landscapes of Brazil, Guyana, and Venezuela in South America. These fascinating creatures thrive in pristine environments, specifically clear, fast-flowing waters with high levels of oxygenation. They can be found in various water bodies, including streams, rivers, floodplains, and lakes, usually with a lush cover of dense vegetation like twisted roots and driftwood branches amidst the sandy substrate.How to breed the Red Tail Hemiodus Tetra
There is a lack of information regarding the breeding habits of the Red Tail Hemiodus Tetra, as they have not been successfully bred in a home aquarium setting. It is known that these tetras are egg scatterers, but there are no records or further details available about their reproduction in captivity.Diet & feeding
The Red Tail Hemiodus Tetra is not a finicky eater and will readily consume a variety of food types, including high-quality granules and flakes, as well as live and frozen food such as bloodworm, mosquito larvae, brine shrimp, and blackworms. However, it is essential to incorporate some vegetable-based material into their diet, as these fish are known to consume plant matter in their natural habitat.Other Tetras you maybe interested in
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
Freshwater
104 Tetras Profiles
View All