Hemigrammus stictus · Red-base Tetra

Overview

A quiet social tetra, Hemigrammus stictus develops subtle coloration in good condition. It competes poorly with larger or very active companions. Adequate numbers, shelter, and consistent care are more useful than a crowded mixed display.

Distribution & habitat

It occurs in Venezuela, Guyana, and Brazil, inhabiting slow rivers, tributaries, and floodplain lakes.

Aquarium setup

Sand, roots, branches, and a little leaf litter provide shelter and lightly tinted water. Renew old leaves as they decompose rather than allowing them to foul the setup. Subdued light is suitable. Plants are optional, though a well-maintained planted aquarium also works for these likely wild-caught fishes.

Diet & feeding

Wild fish chiefly take small invertebrates. Captive individuals accept varied foods, including fine flakes or granules and small live or frozen items.

Behaviour & compatibility

Keep at least six, preferably ten or more. Peaceful tetras, pencilfishes, small catfish, and suitable dwarf cichlids are possible companions. Other small gentle fishes should share its water requirements. Avoid strong feeding competition or large differences in size.

Sexual dimorphism

Adult males are slightly smaller and noticeably slimmer than females.

Breeding

Use a separate dim aquarium with fine-leaved plants, mops, or egg-separating mesh and gentle sponge filtration. Well-conditioned fish may spawn as a group. Alternatively, condition sexes separately and introduce a well-filled female with a displaying male in the evening; spawning may follow the next morning.

Remove adults promptly because they eat eggs. Hatching takes roughly a day to a day and a half, with free swimming another three to four days later. Provide infusoria-sized food first, then microworms or Artemia nauplii. Protect eggs and early fry from bright light.