Reed Tetra - Hyphessobrycon elachys : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Reed Tetras (Hyphessobrycon elachys) are captivating creatures that thrive in the company of their shoal mates. Keeping them as a group of eight or more individuals creates a mesmerizing display of vibrant colours and energetic activity. These peaceful tetras prefer the safety and comfort of their fellow companions, enhancing their natural behaviour and beauty.
It is important to carefully select tankmates for Reed Tetras, as their timid nature makes them vulnerable to aggression or predation from larger or more aggressive species. Optimal tankmates include small and peaceful companions such as small tetras, pencilfish, dwarf cichlids like Apistogramma or Mikrogeophagus, smaller suckermouth catfish, and Corydoras catfish. You can create a tranquil and captivating aquatic environment by curating a harmonious community of compatible species.
Designing the perfect habitat for Reed Tetras involves incorporating elements reminiscent of their natural surroundings. Driftwood serves a dual purpose, providing striking aesthetics and releasing tannins into the water, creating a gentle acidity and a rich, earthy brown hue reminiscent of their native habitat. Introducing peat filtration can further enhance this effect.
Dense planting—both floating and rooted—should be incorporated to create a sense of security for these delicate tetras. This lush foliage offers hiding spots and a comforting environment for Reed Tetras to explore and thrive. Opt for subdued lighting to mimic their natural habitat, allowing their stunning colours to shine through. Consider choosing a darker substrate and background to accentuate their striking appearance.
Reed Tetras possess a silvery sheen that glimmers against their broad anal fin lobe. The mature males stand out with their elongated dorsal and pelvic fins, while a prominent black spot adorns the caudal peduncle. Delicate white colouring on either side of the black spot adds a touch of elegance, complemented by translucent fins that sway gracefully in the water.
By recreating the ideal habitat and providing suitable tankmates, you can unlock the true magnificence of Reed Tetras, witnessing their enchanting beauty and experiencing the tranquillity they bring to your aquarium.
Reed Tetra Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Reed Tetras is a straightforward task. Mature males exhibit distinct physical characteristics that set them apart. For example, their dorsal and pelvic fin rays are elongated, imparting an elegant appearance, while the anterior portion of the anal fin showcases a broad, lobe-like shape. Furthermore, males generally display larger body sizes and more vibrant colours compared to females. In contrast, females tend to be smaller in size, possess fuller bodies, and exhibit a more subdued colouration. By observing these distinguishing features, one can easily discern the gender of Reed Tetras in an aquarium setting.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon elachys |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1984 |
| Other Names | Veilfin Tetra |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Hyphessobrycon |
| Origins | Brazil , Paraguay , Argentina |
| Max Size | 2.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 8+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| ℉ | 75 - 81 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 23 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
Reed Tetras are native to the captivating Rio Parana and Rio Paraguay Basins, encompassing the awe-inspiring landscapes of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina in South America. These mesmerizing fish thrive in their natural habitats, which consist of shallow and meandering channels, tranquil swamps, and enchanting small tributaries. The water in these regions possesses a soft and acidic nature, enriched with the captivating hues of tannins released by the surrounding leaf litter. Moreover, the aquatic environment is adorned with lush and vibrant aquatic vegetation, providing a picturesque setting for the Reed Tetras to explore and thrive.
Breeding
Some aquarists have achieved the successful breeding of Reed Tetras in home aquariums. While information and records on their specific breeding requirements are limited, they are presumed to follow a spawning pattern similar to other Hyphessobrycon species.
To increase the likelihood of successful breeding, it is recommended to condition a pair of Reed Tetras prior to spawning. Live foods such as mosquito larvae or brine shrimp can be provided to enhance their health and readiness for reproduction. Choose the most vibrant and robust male along with the largest and healthiest female as the breeding pair.
A separate breeding tank should be set up to maximize fry production. The breeding tank should have soft, acidic water, a dark substrate, and dim lighting. Increasing the temperature a few degrees higher than their regular aquarium environment is also beneficial. Including an abundance of fine-leaved plants, such as java moss, or utilizing spawning mops will provide suitable surfaces for the fish to deposit their eggs. Floating plants can be added to create a subdued lighting environment.
Spawning typically occurs in the morning, with the female scattering eggs onto the plants and substrate. Removing the parents from the breeding tank after spawning is advisable to prevent them from consuming the eggs and fry. The eggs usually hatch within 24 to 36 hours, and the fry becomes free swimming three to four days later.
Raising the fry is relatively straightforward, and initially, they can be fed on Infusoria-type foods until they are large enough to accept newly hatched brine shrimp. Then, the fry can thrive and grow into healthy Reed Tetras with proper care and nutrition.
While the specific breeding requirements of Reed Tetras may still hold some mysteries, providing optimal conditions and appropriate feeding for the breeding pair can increase the likelihood of successful reproduction, allowing aquarists to witness the fascinating journey from egg to fry in their home aquariums.
Diet & Feeding
Reed Tetras exhibit a versatile and adaptable feeding behaviour. Although they are not selective eaters, providing them with a diverse and high-quality diet will ensure their overall well-being and vibrant colouration. To meet their dietary needs, offering a balanced mix of premium dried foods such as flakes, micropellets, and granules is recommended. In addition, supplementing their diet with live or frozen options such as daphnia, cyclops, bloodworm, mosquito larvae, and brine shrimp will provide essential nutrients and enhance their natural feeding behaviours. Incorporating various food sources can promote optimal health and a vibrant appearance in your Reed Tetras.
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