Lemon Tetra - Albino - Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis var. "Albino" : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Albino Lemon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis) is a serene, low-maintenance species that prospers in an array of water conditions, presenting itself as an exemplary selection for community aquariums.
This captivating species ranks among the larger and sturdier torpedo-shaped tetras, showcasing a transparent yellow body that gleams with a pearlescent lustre from its scales. The Albino Lemon Tetra's anal and dorsal fins feature striking yellow and black markings, with the first three or four rays demonstrating a vibrant lemon-yellow colour. The dorsal fin is predominantly black, juxtaposed with a contrasting yellow patch at its centre.
A distinctive characteristic of this fish is its eye. The upper half of the iris exudes an intense red colour, at times appearing akin to a radiant, gemstone-quality ruby in specific specimens. The Albino Lemon Tetra truly comes to life when kept in groups of six or more. While their vivid colours may not be immediately apparent in in-store display tanks, these enchanting fish, once acclimated to a well-planted home aquarium, intensify their stunning lemon-yellow hues, crafting a mesmerising display.
For those seeking a unique addition to their aquatic community, an exquisite albino variety of the Albino Lemon Tetra is available. To highlight the full splendour of this species, envision an aquarium environment replete with dense plant thickets and open swimming spaces for the fish to interact and display their vibrant hues.
Ideal tankmates include other Tetra species, small Barbs, small Danios, small Rasboras, Corydoras and Otocinclus Catfish. For larger aquariums, the inclusion of Dwarf Cichlids, such as smaller Apistogramma species, is worth considering. When choosing tankmates, preference should be given to peaceful, non-aggressive, and similarly sized South American species to foster a harmonious and visually stunning aquatic environment.
Lemon Tetra - Albino Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Ascertaining the sex of Albino Lemon Tetras can pose a challenge during their juvenile phase, but discerning the gender of adult specimens proves notably simpler. The edge of a male's anal fin is rather expansive, and during breeding readiness, it may occupy nearly a third of the fin. In contrast, females exhibit merely a thin black line on the edge of their anal fin. Additionally, males typically flaunt more vibrant colours than their female counterparts.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis var. "Albino" |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1937 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Hyphessobrycon |
| Origins | |
| Max Size | 5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 6 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 3 - 8 |
| ℉ | 70 - 80 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 21 - 26 |
Natural Habitat
The Albino Lemon Tetra, a manmade colour morph rarely encountered in the wild, naturally resides in the crystalline waters of the Tapajós River basin, a humid and warm region of Brazil. These stunning fish are commonly found in shallow waters near shorelines, where moderate currents meet dense vegetation. Their preferred habitat comprises narrow, overgrown streams that offer abundant hiding spots among the aquatic vegetation. The Tapajós River, home to these enchanting fish, is a significant tributary of the legendary Amazon River, spanning approximately 500 miles before merging with the Amazon at Para.
Regardless of whether you are a seasoned aquarist or a newcomer to the fishkeeping realm, these charming fish are certain to delight and captivate your imagination. Their unique Albino variation adds an intriguing layer to their already mesmerising presence, underscoring the fascinating diversity within the aquatic world.
Breeding
To optimise the likelihood of successfully breeding Albino Lemon Tetras, it is advised to establish a separate, heavily planted breeding tank. This tank should feature soft, acidic water and a slightly elevated temperature. Condition the fish for spawning by providing them with live foods.
As a male prepares for reproduction, he will stake out a specific territory in the aquarium and will put on a display for competing males. While this interaction may resemble fighting, it is merely posturing and does not result in harm to the fish. The females, observers of these displays, will select males they deem most likely to contribute to the success of their progeny.
Once the females are primed to breed, they will gravitate towards secluded areas or dense vegetation for mating, dispersing their eggs over the plants. Following the laying of eggs, it is recommended to remove the parents to safeguard the eggs' survival, as the parents may consume the eggs if left in the tank. Generally, the eggs will hatch within a span of 3-4 days, with the fry commencing free-swimming roughly 24 to 48 hours thereafter.
Diet & Feeding
Albino Lemon Tetras flourish on a varied diet, and these adaptable fish eagerly accept an extensive range of food types. A premium tropical granule or flake food should constitute the foundation of their diet. In addition to this, they will consume live, freeze-dried, or frozen meaty foods, including Daphnia, blackworms, and brine shrimp. Albino Lemon Tetras also value blanched vegetables as a component of their balanced diet.
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