African Blue Diamond Tetra Care Guide
Alestopetersius caudalis
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Bioload Score
2000
- Max Size
- 7 cm / 2.76"
- Temperature
- 22–26°C (72–79°F)
- pH Range
- 6 – 7.5
- Min Tank Size
- 100L (26 gal)
- Min Group Size
- 8 fish
- Tank Level
- Bottom-Mid
- Origin
- Africa
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Breeding Difficulty
- Moderate
Diet
An omnivore that eats small insects, crustaceans, worms, and plant matter, accepting quality flakes and small frozen or live foods in aquaria.
Community Compatibility
Suitable tankmates include peaceful Congo Tetras, other similarly sized Alestidae, medium-sized barbs, peaceful catfish, and non-aggressive dwarf cichlids.
Good to Know
The African Blue Diamond Tetra, Alestopetersius caudalis, is named for the striking blue, diamond-like sheen that flashes across its flanks when it turns in the light.
Gender Differences
Males are usually more vividly blue, slimmer, and develop longer, more elaborate fins, while females are fuller-bodied and less intensely coloured.
About the African Blue Diamond Tetra
The African Blue Diamond Tetra is a graceful, shimmering characin with a slender, laterally compressed body. Its flanks can reflect intense steel-blue or turquoise tones, while the fins often show yellow, orange, or reddish accents that become especially vivid in mature males and under subdued lighting.This species is a peaceful but active shoaling fish, spending much of its time in the middle and upper areas of the water column. Groups display their best colours when swimming together, and males may perform brief, harmless displays as they establish a loose social hierarchy.Alestopetersius caudalis is native to the Congo Basin of Central Africa, where it occurs in forest-associated rivers and tributaries. These waters are typically shaded by dense vegetation, with gently flowing sections, submerged roots, and a mixture of sandy or leaf-covered habitats.The species belongs to the African tetra family Alestidae, a diverse group that includes several of the Congo region's most spectacular aquarium fishes. Its combination of brilliant colour, active schooling behaviour, and relatively moderate adult size has made it a valued but less commonly seen alternative to more familiar New World tetras.
Stock African Blue Diamond Tetra in Your Tank
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