Rummynose Tetra: The Perfect Pulse of a Peaceful Community Tank

With a shimmering silver body, vibrant red nose, and boldly striped tail, the Rummynose Tetra (Hemigrammus rhodostomus and related species) is a favorite among aquarists for good reason. Known for its tightly coordinated schooling behavior, this peaceful species brings rhythm and beauty to any planted or community tank.

Let’s explore why the Rummynose Tetra is one of the most graceful and useful indicator fish in the aquarium hobby.

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Species Overview

• Scientific Names:

  • Hemigrammus rhodostomus (true Rummynose)

  • Hemigrammus bleheri (common in trade)

  • Petitella georgiae (closely related species)

• Common Name: Rummynose Tetra

• Family: Characidae

• Origin: Amazon Basin (Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela)

• Size: 1.75–2 inches (4.5–5 cm)

• Lifespan: 5–6 years with good care

• Temperament: Peaceful, highly social

• Tank Level: Midwater swimmer

• Swimming Behavior: Schooling (tight, synchronized movements)

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Distinctive Appearance

Rummynose Tetras are named for their bright red snouts, which contrast beautifully against their silvery, iridescent bodies. But their real showstopper is the tail:

• ⚪️⚫️ Tail Pattern: Distinctive black and white horizontal stripes (sometimes called a “zebra tail”)

• ? Color Intensity: The brightness of the red nose fades during stress, making them excellent "health barometers" for your tank

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Tank Setup & Care

These fish thrive in mature, stable aquariums with clean, soft water and a peaceful environment.

Tank Size:

• Minimum: 20 gallons (for a small school of 6–8)

• Best: 30+ gallons for larger groups

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 5.5–7.2 (slightly acidic preferred)

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–12 dGH)

• Filtration: Gentle flow, but highly oxygenated

• Water Changes: Weekly 25–40% (they are sensitive to nitrates)

Lighting & Decor:

• Moderate lighting

• Planted aquariums with driftwood and leaf litter mimic natural habitats

• Darker substrate enhances coloration

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Schooling Behavior

Rummynose Tetras are true schooling fish, meaning they:

• Move together in tight, synchronized formations

• Display calmer, healthier behavior in groups of 10 or more

• Use schooling as a defense and stress-reduction mechanism

? Best Practice: Keep at least 8–10 for natural behavior. Larger schools (20+) are stunning in open tanks.

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Compatibility & Tankmates

Rummynose Tetras are ideal community fish thanks to their peaceful nature and midwater swimming.

Great Tankmates:

• Other peaceful tetras (e.g., neon, ember, black neon)

• Corydoras catfish

• Dwarf gouramis

• Hatchetfish

• Rasboras

• Peaceful dwarf cichlids (e.g., apistogrammas)

• Otocinclus

Avoid:

• Aggressive fish

• Fin-nippers

• Fast or boisterous species that might outcompete them at feeding time

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Feeding: Small Bites, Big Results

Rummynose Tetras are micro-predators in the wild and appreciate small, frequent meals in captivity.

Diet:

• Staples: High-quality micro pellets or flake foods

• Supplement with:

  • Baby brine shrimp (live or frozen)

  • Daphnia

  • Cyclops

  • Microworms

• Feed 1–2 times per day, only what they can eat in 2–3 minutes

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Breeding in Captivity

Breeding Rummynose Tetras is possible but requires soft, acidic water and a mature tank.

Breeding Tips:

• Use a separate breeding tank with:

  • Very soft water (1–3 dGH)

  • pH around 5.5–6.2

  • Dim lighting

  • Java moss or spawning mops

• Spawning is usually group-based

• Remove adults after spawning — they may eat the eggs

• Eggs hatch in 24–36 hours; fry feed on infusoria, then baby brine shrimp

Breeding them is a moderate challenge, often pursued by dedicated hobbyists.

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Why Choose Rummynose Tetras?

✔ Striking Appearance – That red nose and striped tail combo is hard to beat
✔ Peaceful Nature – Excellent for planted and community tanks
✔ Natural Schooling – One of the tightest schooling species in freshwater
✔ Health Indicators – Red nose fades with poor water quality, warning you early
✔ Hardy with Proper Care – Thrive in soft, stable water with minimal aggression

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Common Problems to Watch

• Stress-related fading (due to poor water, rough handling, or aggression)

• Ich or fin rot if water quality dips

• Nitrate sensitivity — keep nitrates under 20 ppm

• Jumping risk — use a secure lid

Maintain consistency and avoid sudden changes in water parameters.

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Final Thoughts

The Rummynose Tetra is a wonderful choice for aquarists who want both elegance and activity. Watching a school of these tetras pulse across a planted tank is like watching a living piece of art. While they need a bit more stability than beginner fish, they reward aquarists with beauty, behavior, and peace.

Whether you’re designing a blackwater biotope, a South American-themed tank, or just want a reliable schooler to liven up your midwater zone, the Rummynose Tetra is a glowing recommendation.

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Quick Recap:

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