Profile Photo
Six Stripes Tetra - Hyphessbrycon Hexastichos : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Six Stripes Tetras (Hyphessbrycon Hexastichos) are truly a gem in freshwater aquarium fish. Their rarity and uniqueness make them a beautiful addition to any aquatic collection. These Tetras exhibit a peaceful demeanour, seamlessly integrating into the community aquarium while fostering harmony with various fish species. Their remarkable adaptability and resilience make them an ideal choice for both novice and experienced aquarists alike.
Being sociable and gregarious by nature, it is crucial to maintain Six Stripes Tetras in a group of at least six individuals. This ensures their well-being and allows them to flourish in a natural, cohesive school. Occasionally, you may witness lively interactions among the group members, but with ample space and abundant hiding spots or visual barriers, any skirmishes should remain harmless and fleeting.
When selecting tankmates, opt for species of similar size and temperament. Other small Tetras, Hatchetfish, Pencilfish, non-predatory small to medium-sized Cichlids, as well as small Loricariids and Corydoras Catfish, are excellent companions for the Six Stripes Tetras. However, please exercise caution when pairing them with more boisterous or significantly larger tankmates to prevent any potential competition or intimidation.
The Six Stripes Tetras boast a distinctive physique with a compressed and moderately deep body. Their captivating appearance is characterized by a shimmering silvery hue on the lateral surface, elegantly contrasting with a vibrant reddish-orange body. Adorning their slender form are six mesmerizing brownish-red zigzag longitudinal lines. One faint zigzag line graces the top half, while three faint zigzag lines embellish the bottom half. Two solid zigzag stripes elegantly converge in the middle, creating a striking visual spectacle.
When it comes to their fins, these Tetras exhibit transparent appendages, with some individuals showcasing a captivating red hue, while others accentuate their presence with a sleek black line adorning the edge of the anal fin. Such unique features elevate the allure and charm of the Six Stripes Tetras, captivating the eyes and igniting a sense of wonder in the hearts of all who gaze upon them.
Six Stripes Tetra Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Six Stripes Tetras can pose a slight challenge due to their closely resembling appearance. However, there are subtle distinctions to observe. Typically, males display a more vibrant and intense red hue on their bodies compared to females. Additionally, the zigzag stripes on the males appear more pronounced, contributing to their overall visual impact.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hyphessbrycon Hexastichos |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Zig Zag Tetra |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Hyphessobrycon |
| Origins | Brazil |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 5.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 1 - 12 |
| ℉ | 75 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 23 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
The Six Stripes Tetra holds a captivating presence within the aquatic realm, residing exclusively in the Rio Mutum, a tributary of the Rio Juruena, found in the pristine headwaters of the Rio Tapajós drainage. Their natural habitat showcases the scenic beauty of Chapada dos Parecis, Comodoro, nestled within the vibrant landscapes of Mato Grosso, Brazil, in South America. These mesmerizing Tetras grace the clear and shallow waters of the region, where the substrate embraces a gentle blend of fine sand interspersed with scattered small stones, offering a touch of natural elegance. Alongside this aquatic tapestry, a delicate fringe of riparian vegetation lends a subtle charm to their chosen abode.
Breeding
Regrettably, limited information is available regarding the breeding of Six Stripes Tetras. However, it is reasonable to assume that their breeding behaviour follows a pattern similar to other species within the Hyphessbrycon genus. To successfully propagate Six Stripes Tetras and bolster the fry count, a dedicated breeding tank should be set up.
Creating an environment conducive to spawning entails providing a dimly lit setting within the breeding tank. Introducing bundles of fine-leaved plants, such as Java Moss, will offer suitable surfaces for the fish to deposit their eggs. Alternatively, spawning mops, artificial grass matting, or a layer of glass marbles can serve this purpose effectively. To prevent the parents from accessing the eggs, a mesh layer should be placed on the tank's bottom, featuring openings large enough for the eggs to pass through.
Water conditions within the breeding tank should be slightly acidic to neutral pH, with a temperature somewhat higher than that of the community aquarium. Proper water movement and oxygenation can be achieved by incorporating an air-powered sponge filter or an air stone.
When breeding Six Stripes Tetras, the ideal scenario involves a group of approximately six individuals of each sex. Therefore, prior to spawning, it is crucial to condition them with a diet rich in live, frozen, or freeze-dried foods. This preparatory feeding regimen will help facilitate successful spawning.
Alternatively, breeding can also be attempted by pairing individual male and female fish. This approach necessitates conditioning the male and female groups separately in tanks and offering them a high-quality diet comprised of live and frozen foods. Once the females exhibit noticeable signs of being full of eggs and the males display their most vibrant colours, carefully select the healthiest female and the male with the most impressive colouration. Then, introduce this pair into the breeding tank, where they are likely to spawn the following morning.
To ensure the survival of the eggs, it is crucial to remove the adults from the tank upon detection promptly. Eggs typically hatch within a span of 24 to 36 hours, with the fry becoming free-swimming 3 to 4 days later. During the initial stages, feeding the fry with infusoria-type foods is advisable until they reach a size suitable for accepting baby brine shrimp and microworms. Maintaining dim lighting or even turning off the lights altogether will aid in minimizing sensitivity to light, benefiting the eggs and fry during this critical development phase.
Diet & feeding
Six Stripes Tetras have an adaptable and diverse diet, making them omnivorous in nature. They exhibit a robust appetite and readily accept a wide range of aquarium foods. To ensure their optimal health and vibrant colouration, offering them a varied diet is recommended. This should include high-quality dried foods such as granules, flakes, and pellets, which serve as a staple. However, it would be best to supplement their diet with live and frozen foods to enhance their nutrition and overall well-being. Blackworms, bloodworms, mosquito larvae, daphnia, and brine shrimp are excellent options that provide essential nutrients and promote their natural feeding behaviours.
