Redeye Tetra Care Guide

Redeye Tetras, scientifically known as Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae, are captivating and lively freshwater fish known for their distinct red eyes and beautiful silver body. They have a streamlined and elongated body shape with a silvery base color that shimmers under the aquarium lights. Their most striking feature is their vibrant red eyes, which stand out prominently against their silver body. Redeye Tetras are popular among aquarists for their eye-catching appearance and active swimming behavior.

Redeye Tetras are native to the rivers and streams of South America, particularly the Paraná, Paraguay, and Uruguay River basins. In their natural habitat, they inhabit slow-moving or still waters with dense vegetation and areas of dappled light. To replicate their preferred environment, it's recommended to provide them with a well-planted aquarium that offers hiding places and open swimming areas. Adding driftwood, rocks, and floating plants can also enhance their habitat and provide naturalistic features.

In terms of behavior, Redeye Tetras are active and schooling fish that thrive when kept in groups of at least six individuals. They exhibit a strong shoaling instinct and feel more secure when surrounded by their own kind. Redeye Tetras are known for their lively and energetic swimming behavior, often darting around the aquarium. They are generally peaceful and can coexist well with other non-aggressive community fish.

Caring for Redeye Tetras involves maintaining suitable water conditions and a well-maintained aquarium. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a moderate temperature range. Good filtration and regular water changes are important to maintain optimal water quality. Providing them with plenty of swimming space, suitable hiding places, and areas with gentle water flow will contribute to their well-being.

Redeye Tetras are omnivorous and have a versatile diet. In their natural habitat, they feed on small insects, worms, crustaceans, and plant matter. In the aquarium, they can be fed high-quality flake or pellet food designed for tropical fish. Offering them occasional live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia will provide necessary nutrients and help enhance their overall coloration and health.

When selecting tank mates for Redeye Tetras, it's important to choose peaceful fish species that share similar water parameters. They can coexist well with other small to medium-sized, non-aggressive community fish, such as tetras, rasboras, livebearers, or dwarf cichlids. Avoid keeping them with fin-nipping or aggressive fish that may cause stress or harm to the Redeye Tetras.

Breeding Redeye Tetras in captivity is possible, although it can be challenging. A separate breeding tank with slightly acidic and soft water, along with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops, is recommended. The parents do not provide parental care, and the eggs typically hatch within 24-36 hours. Raising the fry requires providing them with small live or powdered food and maintaining optimal water conditions.

In conclusion, Redeye Tetras are captivating and active fish that can add vibrancy to any freshwater aquarium. With their distinct red eyes, silver body, and lively behavior, they are highly valued by aquarists. By providing them with suitable tank conditions, a varied diet, and compatible tank mates, Redeye Tetras can thrive and become a delightful addition to any aquatic setup.