哈氏魮脂鲤 · Crystal Red Tetra

Overview

The small, peaceful Megalamphodus haraldschultzi occasionally reaches aquaria as bycatch in other shipments. Its red coloration can resemble related tetras, but the relatively restricted dorsal mark, bordered by white above and pale yellow below, is a useful clue.

Distribution & habitat

It is endemic to Brazil's Araguaia system, with Bananal Island as the type locality and the full range unresolved. Minor tributaries, backwaters, and oxbows are presumed habitats rather than the main channel. Such environments commonly contain soft, mildly acidic water over leaves and branches.

Aquarium setup

Provide at least approximately 60 × 30 cm of floor space. Sand with roots and branches or a planted arrangement is suitable. Floating cover and leaves add shelter; decomposing leaves support microorganisms useful as supplementary fry food. Gentle sponge filtration normally suffices, although some water movement is tolerated.

Diet & feeding

Small invertebrates, crustaceans, filamentous algae, and fruit are likely natural foods. Dry preparations are accepted, but include live or frozen bloodworms, mosquito larvae, and small water fleas for variety.

Behaviour & compatibility

Maintain a mixed-sex group of at least eight to ten. Other compatible schooling fishes can provide security. Mild, similarly sized characins, small bottom-dwelling catfishes, or non-piscivorous small to medium cichlids are possible companions.

Sexual dimorphism

Mature females are fuller-bodied and usually a little larger.

Breeding

This egg scatterer provides no parental care. Conditioned adults may spawn frequently, and occasional young can survive in a mature tank. For higher yields, prepare a separate dim aquarium with mature water and egg protection using mesh, marbles, fine plants, or spawning mops.

After conditioning the group, introduce a pair or one or two males with several females. Eggs are often found the following morning. Use mildly acidic to neutral water, temperatures toward the upper suitable range, and gentle aeration or sponge filtration. Separate adults from the eggs once spawning is detected.

Begin with Paramecium or extremely fine starter foods, progressing to Artemia nauplii and microworms as fry grow.

Notes

In Megalamphodus eques, darkness covers much more of the dorsal fin. Here the mark is smaller, with white above, yellow below, and a lower edge roughly parallel to the body. Red coloration or the shoulder spot alone is insufficient for confident separation.