Blue Eyed Congo Tetra - Phenacogrammus aurantiacus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Blue Eye Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus aurantiacus) is a true gem of the aquarium world. These gorgeous fish are hardy and peaceful, known for their vibrant colours and schooling behaviour. In their natural habitat, they typically swim in large groups, creating a breathtaking display of colour and movement. Therefore, keeping these fish in groups of at least six to eight individuals is essential to appreciate their stunning nature fully. Moreover, Blue Eye Congo Tetras are an excellent community tank addition.
Due to their naturally reserved disposition, it is advisable to refrain from cohabiting these Tetras with substantially larger or more assertive fish. Optimal companions for them include other Characins, Rainbowfish, Corydoras catfish, and Dwarf Cichlids. It is crucial, however, to carefully select tankmates with compatible temperaments to avoid any potential instances of fin-nipping or aggression. It is also prudent to avoid pairing them with significantly smaller fish, as such a situation might lead to aggression towards the smaller tankmates.
Blue Eye Congo Tetras exhibit their most vibrant colours when housed in a planted aquarium with ample open swimming areas and strategically placed driftwood. They thrive in environments with subdued lighting and are particularly well-suited for African biotope tanks adorned with floating vegetation, driftwood branches, and Anubias plants. Maintaining slightly acidic and soft water conditions with a gentle but steady water current is recommended for optimal well-being.
These stunning fish have dark brown to black slender bodies adorned with bright blue spots and a vivid horizontal stripe ranging in colour from yellow to orange or green. Below that stripe, they display a pale blue horizontal band with a myriad of reflective colours. In addition, the edge of their stomachs features bright blue spots, and their eyes are a vibrant blue, truly making them stand out in any aquarium.
Blue Eyed Congo Tetra Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Blue Eyed Congo Tetras is a relatively simple task. Adult males possess larger body sizes and more vivid colouration, accompanied by elongated dorsal and caudal fins that may develop filaments. Conversely, females are relatively smaller, duller in colouration, and devoid of elongated fins.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Phenacogrammus aurantiacus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1930 |
| Other Names | Lamp Eye Congo Tetra, Golden Congo Tetra, Yellow Congo Tetra |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Alestidae |
| Genus | Phenacogrammus |
| Origins | Gabon , Democratic Republic of the Congo |
| Max Size | 10 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 3 - 18 |
| ℉ | 72 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
Blue Eye Congo Tetras are a magnificent species that call the lush, tropical waterways of Gabon and the Republic of Congo home. However, these fish are also found in the upper reaches of the Congo River Basin, thriving in areas with gentle currents and a mix of silt, sand, and mud substrates, surrounded by an abundance of aquatic vegetation and natural debris.
Blue Eye Congo Tetras love to dart in and out of plants, picking at the various organisms that thrive there, whether in the wild or in an aquarium. In their natural habitat, these fish can be found hiding among leaf litter and driftwood, as well as in the quieter backwaters and eddies of the river. These incredible fish are a true marvel of nature and a delightful addition to any aquarium.
Breeding
To successfully breed Blue Eye Congo Tetras, a separate aquarium with a minimum size of 70 litres is necessary to house any potential fry. In addition, reducing lighting and providing abundant vegetation is crucial, as these fish will scatter their eggs among the plants. The tank base should be covered with a mesh that will allow the eggs to fall through but prevent the adults from reaching them. To prepare for breeding, it is best to condition the fish with a varied diet of live and frozen food.
Spawning typically occurs at the first light of the morning, and a single pair can produce between 100 to 200 eggs. Unfortunately, blue Eye Congo Tetras will not protect their eggs, so removing the pair once spawning has finished is essential to avoid predation. The eggs will incubate for 5 to 7 days, with some eggs possibly developing fungus during the first 24 to 48 hours, which must be removed. After hatching, the young will initially feed off their yolk sac for a day or two before transitioning to infusoria, followed by baby brine shrimp or microworms.
Diet & Feeding
Blue Eye Congo Tetras have a diverse diet that includes both animal and plant matter. They feed on worms, crustaceans, insects, algae, and detritus in their natural habitat. In the home aquarium, these fish are undemanding and will readily accept various food. You can feed them high-quality dried foods like flakes and granules and live or frozen options such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworm. To maintain optimal health, feeding them small portions multiple times a day is best.
Frequently asked questions
Other Tetras
121 More Tetras Profiles
View All