Rummynose Tetra (Hemigrammus bleheri) - Live Fish

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM:

The Rummynose Tetra (Hemigrammus rhodostomus) is a popular and beautiful species of freshwater fish known for its striking appearance and peaceful nature. It's particularly admired for its vibrant red-colored head and active schooling behavior, making it a favorite among aquarists.

Here are some key facts about the Rummynose Tetra:

Appearance

• Size: Rummynose Tetras grow to about 2 inches (5 cm) in length.
• Coloration: The most notable feature of this fish is its bright red head, which gives it the "rummynose" name. This red coloration starts at the gills and extends to the tip of the snout. The body is silver or transparent with a subtle iridescent sheen, and they often have a black vertical stripe near the tail, adding to their striking look.
• Shape: Their body is slender and streamlined, with a slight curve, which helps them navigate quickly in schools. They have a typical tetra shape—small, compact, and agile.

Habitat

• Origin: Rummynose Tetras are native to the Amazon River basin in South America, specifically found in Brazil and parts of Peru. They inhabit slow-moving rivers, streams, and flooded forest areas.
• Water Conditions: They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a temperature range of 75-84°F (24-29°C). Soft to moderately soft water (pH 6.0–7.5) is ideal for these fish.
• Aquarium Setup: They do best in well-planted aquariums with floating plants or dark substrate, which mimics the shaded, tannin-stained waters they come from in the wild. They thrive in aquariums with plenty of open swimming space.

Behavior

• Temperament: Rummynose Tetras are peaceful, calm, and social fish. They are best kept in schools of six or more individuals, as they naturally form tight-knit groups in the wild, which helps reduce stress and allows them to exhibit their natural behaviors.
• Compatibility: They are ideal for community tanks with other peaceful species, such as other tetras, rasboras, Corydoras catfish, and small gouramis. They should not be housed with larger or aggressive species, as they are small and relatively defenseless.

Diet

• Food Preferences: Rummynose Tetras are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flakes, micro pellets, live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
• Feeding Tips: A varied diet will keep them healthy, colorful, and active. It’s essential to provide both plant-based and protein-rich foods to maintain their overall well-being.

Breeding

• Breeding Difficulty: Breeding Rummynose Tetras can be tricky and requires ideal water conditions, including soft, slightly acidic water. They can be bred in a dedicated breeding tank, where they will spawn in plants or on flat surfaces.
• Spawning: Once the eggs are fertilized, they hatch in about 24-36 hours. The fry are very small and need infusoria or finely powdered foods until they are large enough to accept standard foods.

Care Tips

• Water Quality: Rummynose Tetras are sensitive to poor water quality. Regular water changes, good filtration, and maintaining stable water parameters are essential for their health.
• Stress Factors: They are also sensitive to changes in water conditions and sudden fluctuations in temperature. Maintaining stable and clean water is key to keeping them healthy and stress-free.

Unique Features

• Red Nose Coloration: The red coloration on the head is more vivid when the fish is healthy and well cared for. In some cases, stress or poor water quality can cause the red coloration to fade.
• Schooling Behavior: Rummynose Tetras are highly active and social fish that should be kept in groups of at least six to feel secure and display their natural behaviors.

The Rummynose Tetra is a beautiful and lively fish that adds a lot of color and activity to a community aquarium. Their peaceful nature and striking red head make them a standout species in any tank setup, especially when kept in a well-planted environment with other compatible species.