Hemigrammus Hyanuary

Datasheet

General Description

The Hemigrammus Hyanuary, commonly known as the January Tetra or green neon tetra, is a species that is occasionally mistaken for the head and tail light tetra. Belonging to the Characidae family, it can reach a maximum size of 4.0cm and requires a minimum tank size of 70 litres. Native to slow-moving rivers, tributaries, and floodplain lakes in the Amazon basin of Peru and Brazil, this species is typically found in habitats with water temperatures ranging from 23-27°C and a pH level of 6.0-7.0.

Aquarium Setup

For an aquarium setup suitable for the January Tetra, a biotope arrangement is recommended. This includes river sand substrate, driftwood branches, twisted roots, and dried leaves such as beech or oak that mimic its natural environment. Aquatic plants are not a typical feature in its habitat. Maintaining dim lighting and incorporating peat into the filter can help simulate black water conditions that the species prefer. Alternatively, a heavily planted tank can also serve as a suitable environment.

Behaviour

The January Tetra is a peaceful species that thrives in shoals of at least 6 individuals, preferably more. It is best housed with other South American species like Hemigrammus and Hyphessobrycon species, pencil fish, Apistogramma dwarf cichlids, Corydoras, and small Loricariids. In community tanks, it can coexist with smaller rasboras, barbs, Anabantoids, and West African dwarf cichlids. This species is known to look more visually striking when kept in larger groups.

Feeding and Diet

Feeding chiefly on small invertebrates in the wild, the January Tetra in the aquarium is not picky and accepts a varied diet. A combination of dried flakes, granules, live, and frozen foods is suitable for their nutrition.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Breeding the January Tetra involves setting up a separate tank with specific conditions like dim lighting, soft and acidic water, and fine-leaved plants for egg deposition. They can be spawned in groups or pairs, with fry requiring special care and feeding. Adult males are slightly smaller and slimmer than females, displaying a small hook on the anal fin which females lack.

Habitat and Distribution

Found in the Amazon basin of Peru and Brazil, the January Tetra's distribution includes the type specimen collected from Lake Hyanuary near Manaus, Brazil. Their natural habitats consist of slow-moving rivers, tributaries, and floodplain lakes with water conditions that mimic black water environments.