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Red Eye Tetra

Red Eye Tetra

Posted by Max Gandara on on 23rd Apr 2025

Red Eye Tetra: A Guide for Enthusiasts

The Red Eye Tetra, known scientifically as Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae, is a captivating freshwater fish that has become increasingly popular among aquarium enthusiasts. Known for its striking appearance and calm demeanor, the Red Eye Tetra is an excellent addition to community tanks. Let's dive into the fascinating world of this charming fish.

Appearance and Characteristics

The Red Eye Tetra is aptly named for the vibrant red ring around its eyes, which stands out against its silver body. This slim, torpedo-shaped fish typically grows to about 2.5 inches in length, making it a manageable size for most home aquariums. The fish's streamlined body and transparent fins add an elegant touch to their appearance, and they often display a subtle iridescent sheen under aquarium lighting.

Natural Habitat

Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of South America, particularly in Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia, the Red Eye Tetra thrives in warm, slightly acidic waters. In the wild, they inhabit areas with plenty of vegetation and subdued lighting, providing them with ample hiding spots and protection from predators.

Tank Requirements

To replicate the Red Eye Tetra's natural habitat and ensure their well-being in captivity, consider the following tank setup:

  • Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a small school of Red Eye Tetras, as they are active swimmers.

  • Water Conditions: Maintain a temperature between 72°F and 80°F, with a pH level ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.

  • Substrate and Decorations: Use a dark substrate to mimic their natural environment, and include plenty of plants, driftwood, and rocks for hiding and exploration.

  • Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal, as this species prefers a dimmer environment.

Diet and Feeding

Red Eye Tetras are omnivorous and have a varied diet in the wild. In an aquarium setting, they will thrive on a balanced diet that includes:

  • Flake and Pellet Foods: High-quality commercial flake or micro-pellet foods provide essential nutrients.

  • Live or Frozen Foods: Supplement their diet with brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms to encourage natural hunting behaviors.

  • Vegetable Matter: Occasionally offer blanched spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.

Behavior and Compatibility

Red Eye Tetras are peaceful and sociable fish, making them a perfect choice for community tanks. They thrive in groups of six or more, where their schooling behavior provides a dynamic display. Their calm nature allows them to coexist with other non-aggressive species such as:

  • Other Tetras

  • Corydoras Catfish

  • Dwarf Gouramis

  • Rasboras

Breeding in Captivity

Breeding Red Eye Tetras in captivity can be a rewarding endeavor. To encourage spawning, slightly increase the water temperature and provide a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants where the female can scatter her eggs. Once spawning occurs, remove the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs usually hatch within 24 to 36 hours, and the fry become free-swimming a few days later.

Conclusion

The Red Eye Tetra's striking appearance and peaceful nature make it a beloved choice for aquarists of all experience levels. By providing them with an environment that mimics their natural habitat, a balanced diet, and compatible tank mates, you can enjoy the beauty and serenity of this enchanting fish in your home aquarium. Whether you're a seasoned aquarist or a beginner, the Red Eye Tetra is sure to bring life and vibrancy to your aquatic world.