Hemigrammus belottii · Dash-dot Tetra

Overview

An uncommon trade species, Hemigrammus belottii often arrives among other tetras. This peaceful fish is best served by a group, subdued light, cover, and companions that do not monopolize food.

Distribution & habitat

Its range includes the Solimões, Negro, and Maroni systems in Brazil and French Guiana, where it inhabits rivers and tributaries.

Aquarium setup

Sand, wood, roots, and dried leaves provide a natural-style layout with lightly tinted water. Renew old leaves before decomposition becomes excessive. Submerged plants are optional, and a well-maintained densely planted aquarium is also suitable. Use dim light and accommodate the needs of likely wild-caught individuals.

Diet & feeding

Small invertebrates dominate its natural diet. It is usually adaptable in captivity, taking fine flakes or granules alongside small live and frozen foods.

Behaviour & compatibility

Maintain at least six, preferably ten or more. Much larger or boisterous companions are unsuitable. Peaceful tetras, pencilfishes, small catfish, and suitable dwarf cichlids are options; other small fishes must also match its water needs and gentle feeding pace.

Sexual dimorphism

Adult males are slimmer and usually slightly smaller than females.

Breeding

A separate dim aquarium improves fry survival. Provide fine-leaved plants, mops, or egg-separating mesh with gentle sponge filtration. Condition fish well on small live foods for group spawning, or condition the sexes separately and introduce a well-filled female with a displaying male in the evening. Ready pairs may spawn the next morning.

Remove adults once eggs appear. Hatching takes roughly a day to a day and a half, followed by free swimming another three to four days later. Begin with infusoria-sized food before microworms and Artemia nauplii. Keep eggs and early fry shaded because they are light-sensitive.