黄带直线脂鲤 · Red-eye Tetra

Overview

The red-eye tetra, Bario sanctaefilomenae, brings considerable activity to a community aquarium. Farmed fish are widely available and adaptable in feeding and water chemistry. Its energetic behavior suits active companions better than sedate species.

Distribution & habitat

It is native to Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, mainly in clear rivers draining toward the Pantanal. Floating plant rafts and dense submerged vegetation can be prominent features. Commercial breeding supplies most aquarium stock.

Aquarium setup

Avoid harsh illumination and an exposed, sparsely furnished layout. Dense planting works well when space for swimming remains. Sand, roots, wood, and a modest layer of leaves offer another sheltered arrangement. Remove deteriorating leaves as necessary and maintain good water quality despite the fish's broad tolerance.

Diet & feeding

Flakes and granules are readily accepted. Add small live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, water fleas, and brine shrimp. Include a plant component, for example spinach or an algae-based flake.

Behaviour & compatibility

Keep at least six to eight. Adequate numbers help keep disputes within the group and reduce nervousness and fin nipping. Other active tetras, rainbowfishes, larger rasboras, barbs, and danionins can be suitable. Compatible bottom-dwelling catfishes and loaches are further options. Slower labyrinth fishes and dwarf cichlids may be intimidated. A group can also act as dither fish for peaceful, medium-sized cichlids.

Sexual dimorphism

Females become noticeably rounder when ready to spawn.

Breeding

Prepare a separate, dimly lit aquarium with soft, mildly acidic water and gentle sponge filtration. Fine plants, spawning mops, or mesh protect the spawning sites or eggs. A conditioned group can breed, or a ripe pair can be selected after the sexes have been conditioned separately. Evening introduction often leads to spawning the following morning.

Adults consume eggs and should be removed promptly. Eggs hatch after roughly twenty-four to thirty-six hours; free swimming follows another three or four days later. Start with infusoria-sized food, moving on to microworms and newly hatched brine shrimp as the fry develop.