Hydrolycus Scomberoides

Datasheet

Behaviour

Best kept alone or with similarly-sized, non-aggressive fishes due to its peaceful nature, particularly with those too large to be considered food. It can also be housed in groups in a suitably-sized aquarium, with a recommendation of at least three specimens to minimize aggression. Juveniles tend to exhibit cryptic behavior, lurking among decor in a head-down position, while adults are fully pelagic in their movements.

Feeding and Diet

The Vampire Tetra is an obligate piscivore capable of consuming large prey. Newly-imported specimens may only accept live fish initially, but can often be transitioned to dead alternatives. Avoid feeding mammalian or avian meat like beef heart or chicken, as well as feeder fish like livebearers or small goldfish to prevent disease introduction and ensure proper nutrition in the long term.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Reproduction typically occurs between November and April, with adults undertaking long upstream migrations for breeding purposes. Adults are visually distinct from juveniles, with size and behavior differences observed during different life stages.

Habitat and Distribution

Inhabiting pelagic waters, the Vampire Tetra is commonly found in flowing stretches of main river channels and larger tributaries in the central and upper Amazon River system across Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador. Juveniles are likely to inhabit smaller tributaries and flooded forest areas within their range.