稀鳞直线脂鲤 · Glass Tetra

Overview

Bario oligolepis is a peaceful shoaling tetra seen less often than the similar red-eye tetra, Bario sanctaefilomenae. A quiet community and a substantial group allow it to settle. Much larger or very boisterous fishes can outcompete it.

Distribution & habitat

Its northern South American range includes Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Peru, and Brazil. Slow rivers, tributaries, and floodplain lakes provide habitat.

Aquarium setup

Sand, branching wood, roots, and dried leaves make a useful naturalistic layout. Allow mild tannin staining and keep the light subdued. Replace decaying leaves periodically to prevent excessive waste. Although dense aquatic vegetation is not characteristic of its natural waters, a carefully maintained planted aquarium also works. Acidic conditions tend to bring out better color.

Diet & feeding

Flakes and granules are readily taken. Supplement them regularly with small live or frozen foods, including bloodworms, water fleas, and brine shrimp, to support condition and coloration.

Behaviour & compatibility

Maintain at least six, preferably ten or more. Suitable companions include gentle tetras, pencilfishes, dwarf cichlids, cory-type catfishes, and small loricariids. Some small rasboras and barbs also fit a compatible community. Avoid dominant, excessively active, or substantially larger species.

Sexual dimorphism

Mature females generally have a fuller outline than males.

Breeding

Use a separate, very dim spawning aquarium with soft, mildly acidic water and gentle sponge filtration. Fine plants or spawning mops provide egg sites; a protective mesh floor is another option. Group spawning is possible. Alternatively, condition the sexes separately and transfer a ripe female with a strongly colored male during the evening; spawning often follows next morning.

Remove adults promptly after eggs appear. Hatching takes about twenty-four to thirty-six hours, followed by another three or four days before free swimming. Begin with infusoria-sized food and introduce microworms or newly hatched brine shrimp as the young grow.

Notes

The names glass tetra and glassy tetra are both used. Its resemblance to the more common red-eye tetra makes identification from a trade name alone unreliable.