More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 96 litres / 25.36 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 4.0cm / 1.57inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 8.01dgH / 143ppm |
| pH | 4.0-7.0 |
Behaviour:
The Purple Tetra is known for its very peaceful nature, making it an excellent addition to a community aquarium. It thrives when housed alongside similarly-sized characids, gasteropelecids, lebiasinids, smaller callichthyid or loricariid catfish, and non-predatory, small-to-medium-sized cichlids. Maintaining a mixed-sex group of at least 8-10 individuals is recommended, along with other schooling fishes to provide security and create a more natural-looking environment.
Aquarium Setup:
For optimal display, the Purple Tetra benefits from an aquarium setup that includes a sandy substrate, driftwood roots and branches, or a densely planted environment. Adding dried leaf litter can enhance the natural feel, provide cover for the fish, and promote the growth of beneficial microbe colonies. Maintaining water conditions within a pH range of 4.0-7.0, a temperature between 20-28°C, and a water hardness of 18-143ppm will support the health and well-being of the Purple Tetra.
Feeding and Diet:
The Purple Tetra is likely omnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates, crustaceans, filamentous algae, fallen fruit, and other similar natural food sources. In captivity, they can survive on a diet of dried foods, but it is recommended to offer a varied menu that includes live and frozen options such as chironomid larvae (bloodworm), mosquito larvae, Daphnia, and Moina. Providing a diverse diet will help ensure the Purple Tetra's nutritional needs are met.
Reproduction & Dimorphism:
Information regarding the reproduction of the Purple Tetra is currently unreported. However, sexually mature females of this species exhibit a deeper body and slightly larger size compared to males. These subtle differences in appearance between genders help distinguish between male and female Purple Tetras.
Habitat and Distribution:
Endemic to the middle Río Orinoco watershed in Colombia and Venezuela, the Purple Tetra can be found in tributaries such as the Río Meta and its affluents, including the Río Humadea, Guatiquía, Manacacías, Cusiana, and Casanare. This species inhabits a variety of habitats, including blackwater streams, tropical rainforest streams, floodplain lakes, and morichal habitats characterized by clear water and sandy substrates with dense aquatic plant growth. The Purple Tetra is part of the diverse aquatic ecosystem in the Los Llanos region of Colombia and Venezuela.
For more detailed information, please see the table provided.