Hyphessobrycon Haraldschultzi

Datasheet

General Description

The Crystal Red Tetra, scientifically known as Hyphessobrycon Haraldschultzi, is a peaceful fish belonging to the Characidae family. It is a small species, reaching a maximum size of 2.5cm. Endemic to the rio Araguaia system in central and western Brazil, this tetra is recognizable by a dark spot on its dorsal fin with a white or yellow marking beneath.

Aquarium Setup

The Crystal Red Tetra thrives in a well-researched community aquarium alongside similarly-sized characids, gasteropelecids, lebiasinids, smaller catfish, and non-predatory cichlids. A mixed-sex group of 8-10 specimens is recommended, with the inclusion of other schooling fishes for security. To mimic their natural habitat, provide a sandy substrate, driftwood roots, and branches. Gentle filtration and gentle water movement are suitable, with water conditions ideally at a pH of 5.0-7.0, hardness of 18-179ppm, and a temperature of 20-28°C.

Behaviour

The Crystal Red Tetra is known for its peaceful nature, making it an excellent community tank inhabitant. When kept in a group, their behavior becomes more natural and visually appealing. They do well with other schooling fish species and should be kept in a mixed-sex group for social interaction.

Feeding and Diet

As an omnivorous species, the Crystal Red Tetra feeds on small invertebrates, crustaceans, algae, and fallen fruits in the wild. In aquariums, they can survive on dried foods but do best with a varied diet that includes live and frozen foods like bloodworms, mosquito larvae, Daphnia, and Moina. Offering a diverse menu ensures their nutritional needs are met.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

This tetra is an egg-scattering free spawner that exhibits no parental care. To maximize breeding success, a separate breeding tank with dim lighting and suitable spawning material is recommended. Sexually mature females are typically rounder-bodied and slightly larger than males. When conditions are favorable, adults will spawn frequently, leading to the emergence of fry.

Habitat and Distribution

The Crystal Red Tetra is native to the rio Araguaia system in Brazil, specifically in minor tributaries, backwaters, and oxbow lakes with soft, weakly acidic water. Though the exact range within the drainage is unclear, their presence is associated with habitats characterized by fallen leaves and branches covering the substrate. The type locality for this species is 'Ilha do Bananal, Goiaz, Brazil,' which pertains to Bananal Island, the largest fluvial island globally, formed by the split of the Araguaia river.