黑带半线脂鲤 · Broken-line Tetra

Overview

Hemigrammus ulreyi is a peaceful small shoaling characid, but genuine specimens are relatively scarce in trade. Other fishes are often sold under its name. Reliable identification and origin information are therefore valuable.

Distribution & habitat

Confirmed distribution is within the Brazilian portion of the Paraguay drainage. It occupies slow-moving rivers and tributaries.

Aquarium setup

Sand, wood, branching roots, and leaves can create sheltered, lightly tannin-stained surroundings. Use subdued light and replace decomposing leaf material before it becomes a water-quality problem. A well-maintained planted aquarium or calm community is also suitable.

Diet & feeding

Flakes and granules are readily taken. Combine them with regular small live or frozen foods, including bloodworms, water fleas, and brine shrimp.

Behaviour & compatibility

Maintain at least six, ideally ten or more. Avoid very boisterous or substantially larger competitors. Gentle tetras, pencilfishes, dwarf cichlids, cory-type catfishes, and small loricariids are useful possibilities. Its body shape can help in some communities with larger cichlids, but companion size and actual behavior still matter.

Sexual dimorphism

Mature females are generally larger and fuller around the abdomen than males.

Breeding

Prepare a separate, very dim aquarium with soft acidic water and gentle sponge filtration. Fine plants, spawning mops, or mesh help protect eggs. Either a conditioned group or a selected pair may spawn. For pairs, condition the sexes separately, then introduce suitable adults in the evening; spawning often follows by morning.

Remove the adults once eggs appear. Hatching takes roughly twenty-four to thirty-six hours, followed by another three or four days before free swimming. Start with infusoria-sized food, then introduce microworms and newly hatched brine shrimp. Eggs and early fry are sensitive to light and should remain in dim conditions.

Notes

Frequent labeling errors complicate aquarium identification. Keeping origin and purchase records can assist later checks. Broader classification questions remain, but should not displace the practical care information available for this fish.