More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 108 litres / 28.53 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 10.5cm / 4.13inches |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 27°C / 80.60°F |
| Hardness | 3-12ºdH |
| pH | 6.0-7.0 |
General Description
Hemiodus ternetzi, a species within the Hemiodontidae family, is a peaceful fish known for its tendency to intimidate smaller or more tranquil species due to its size and activity level. With a maximum size of 10.5cm, it is a shoaling species by nature, making it an ideal addition to larger Amazon biotope setups where it can coexist harmoniously with similarly-sized characins, cichlids like Geophagus, Satanoperca, and Heros, as well as catfish and Loricariids. This species is characterized by a distinctive black lateral stripe that extends behind the eye, with an unpigmented dorsal fin.
Aquarium Setup
For optimal care, a tank size of at least 108 liters with stringent maintenance is recommended. Setting up a biotope environment entails a substrate of inert sand, driftwood branches, twisted roots, and floating vegetation to reduce skittish behavior. Hemiodus ternetzi thrives in well-oxygenated water with a pH range of 6.0-7.0, hardness between 3-12°dH, and a temperature of 23-27°C. Due to its tendency to leap unexpectedly, a secure tank cover is essential.
Behaviour
Initially skittish when introduced to a new environment, Hemiodus ternetzi tends to acclimate over time, especially in the company of a sizable shoal. This species is most at ease when kept in a group and exhibits a peaceful demeanor overall.
Feeding and Diet
This Hemiodus species is undemanding when it comes to food, accepting a variety of live, frozen, and dried options. To mimic its natural diet, incorporating greenstuffs is advisable, as these fish are reported to heavily consume plant matter in the wild.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Information on the breeding habits of Hemiodus ternetzi in captivity is scarce, but it is believed to be an egg-scattering species. Sexual dimorphism is not clearly defined, yet mature females likely display a rounder belly compared to males.
Habitat and Distribution
Natively found solely in the Rio Tocantins basin in Brazil, Hemiodus ternetzi inhabits floodplain rivers and lakes, preferring well-oxygenated waters.