Description

Red Eye Tetra (Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae)

Red Eye Tetra is a popular and hardy species of freshwater fish, originating from the rivers and streams of South America. It is highly valued in the aquarium hobby for its peaceful nature, ease of care, and striking visual features, most notably the distinct red flash above its eye. This document outlines the key characteristics and essential care requirements for maintaining the RedEye Tetra.

Key Characteristics

• Size: Typically reaches 5–7 centimetres (2–3 inches) in length.
• Lifespan: Can live for 5 to 8 years in a well-maintained aquarium.
• Colouration: The body is a silvery-grey to translucent colour. Its most distinguishing feature is the bright, iridescent red ring around the top half of the eye, which gives the fish its common name. The caudal fin (tail) has a prominent black spot followed by a bright white or yellow margin.
• Temperament: Generally peaceful, active, and an excellent community fish. They are schooling fish and should never be kept alone.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

RedEye Tetras are native to the Paraná, Paraguay, and Uruguay River basins in South America, spanning countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. They inhabit clear-water tributaries, streams, and flooded areas that have dense vegetation and often a dark, peaty substrate.

Aquarium Requirements

Tank Size

Due to their active nature and schooling behaviour, a minimum tank size of 80 litres (around 20 US gallons) is recommended for a small group of 6 to 8 fish. Larger tanks are always preferable for maintaining stable water quality and allowing ample swimming space.

Water Parameters

Maintaining stable water conditions is crucial for the health of this species.

Décor and Substrate

The RedEye Tetra thrives in an environment that mimics its natural habitat:

1. Substrate: A dark-coloured fine gravel or sand substrate is recommended to enhance their colouration and reduce stress.
2. Planting: Include plenty of live plants, particularly along the sides and back of the tank, leaving the centre open for swimming. Floating plants can also help diffuse lighting.
3. Hiding Places: Use driftwood, root systems, and smooth rocks to provide shaded areas and shelter.

Diet and Feeding

The RedEye Tetra is an omnivore and is not a speciality feeder. A varied diet is essential for optimal health and colour:

• Staple Foods: High-quality flake or micro-pellet food should form the bulk of the diet.
• Live/Frozen Foods: Offer occasional feedings of brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, or tubifex to provide protein and enrichment.
• Vegetable Matter: They will also readily accept blanched vegetables like lettuce or spinach.

Feed small amounts two to three times per day, ensuring the fish consume all the food within a few minutes to prevent fouling the water.

Social Behaviour and Compatibility

The RedEye Tetra is a dedicated schooling fish and must be kept in groups of at least six individuals; ideally eight or more. When kept alone or in small numbers, they become shy, stressed, and may display fin-nipping behaviour towards other tankmates.

They are generally compatible with other peaceful, similarly-sized community fish, including:

• Other Tetra species (e.g., Neon or Black Skirt Tetras)
• Corydoras catfish
• Dwarf Gourami
• Rams and other peaceful dwarf cichlids
• Small, peaceful loaches

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