Hemigrammus Barrigonae

Datasheet

General Description

The Barrigona Tetra, scientifically known as Hemigrammus Barrigonae, is a less common species in the aquarium trade, often found incidentally among imports of more popular tetra species. Belonging to the Characidae family, this tetra can grow up to 4.0cm in size and is typically found in slow-moving rivers and tributaries in the Rio Meta and Orinoco basins of Colombia and Venezuela. The taxonomic classification of this species, like other Hemigrammus, is currently uncertain, with the genus encompassing over 70 small characins that may require a reevaluation.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care, the Barrigona Tetra requires a minimum tank size of 70 litres. It thrives in a setup that mimics its natural habitat, such as a biotope aquarium featuring river sand substrate, driftwood branches, twisted roots, and dried leaves to tint the water a tea-like color. Aquatic plants are not typical in its natural environment. Maintaining dim lighting and incorporating aquarium-safe peat in the filter to simulate blackwater conditions can enhance the setup. Alternatively, the species also does well in a heavily planted tank if wild-caught specimens are used.

Behaviour

Known for its peaceful nature, the Barrigona Tetra is not competitive with more boisterous or significantly larger tankmates. It thrives when kept alongside other South American species like Hemigrammus or Hyphessobrycon species, pencil fish, Apistogramma dwarf cichlids, Corydoras, and small Loricariids. Ideally kept in groups of at least 6, preferably 10 or more, these tetras exhibit a shoaling behavior and show their best colors when in the company of their own kind.

Feeding and Diet

As an omnivorous species, the Barrigona Tetra accepts a varied diet and eagerly consumes dried flakes, granules, live, and frozen foods. Maintaining a balanced diet of these food types ensures the nutritional needs of the tetra are met, promoting their health and vitality.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Reproduction of the Barrigona Tetra has not been extensively documented. However, similar breeding practices to other Hemigrammus species can be employed. Setting up a separate breeding tank with dim lighting, fine-leaved plants, or spawning mops is crucial for successful breeding. Conditions such as soft, acidic water, and temperatures around 80-84°F are favorable for spawning. Females may appear more rounded in the belly compared to males when mature. Breeding efforts often yield eggs that hatch within 24-36 hours, with fry becoming free-swimming 3-4 days later.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, the Barrigona Tetra inhabits slow-moving rivers and tributaries in the Rio Meta and Orinoco basins of Colombia and Venezuela. These South American water bodies provide the tetra with a natural habitat characterized by specific water conditions like pH ranging from 5.5-7.0, water hardness of 3-12 dH, and temperatures between 22-26°C.