Schmard Tetra Hemigrammus schmardae
£30.00
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Description
Schmard’s Tetra (Hemigrammus schmardae) is a delicate, rare characin native to the Amazon basin. While less common in the hobby than its famous cousin, the Rummy-nose Tetra, it is highly prized by specialist aquarists for its subtle beauty and peaceful nature.
Species Overview.
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- Common Name: Schmard’s Tetra
- Scientific Name: Hemigrammus schmardae
- Origin: Upper Amazon basin (Brazil and Peru)
- Size: Approximately 3.5 – 4.5 cm
- Lifespan: 3 – 5 years in optimal conditions
- Temperament: Peaceful, schooling fish
Appearance.
The Schmard’s Tetra possesses a slender, fusiform body characteristic of the Hemigrammus genus.
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- Colouration: Translucent silver-grey body with a subtle iridescent sheen.
- Markings: A distinct dark lateral line running to the caudal peduncle.
- Tail Fin: Notable for a black spot at the base of the tail, often flanked by pale or white patches.
- Eyes: Typically features a bright red or orange upper iris, providing a sharp contrast to its muted body.
Aquarium Requirements.
Water Parameters
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- Temperature: 23°C – 27°C (73°F – 81°F)
- pH Level: 5.5 – 7.0 (Prefers acidic, soft water)
- Hardness: 2 – 10 dGH
- Nitrates: Must be kept very low; they are sensitive to poor water quality.
Tank Setup
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- Minimum Tank Size: 60 litres (approx. 15 gallons) for a small shoal.
- Substrate: Dark sand or fine gravel to mimic the riverbed.
- Decor: Driftwood, dried leaf litter (Indian Almond leaves), and dense planting.
- Lighting: Dim or dappled lighting is preferred; floating plants can help diffuse overhead light.
Diet and Feeding.
These fish are omnivorous micro-predators. In a home aquarium, they should be offered a varied diet:
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- Dry Food: High-quality crushed flakes or micro-pellets.
- Live/Frozen: Daphnia, Artemia (brine shrimp), and bloodworms.
- Frequency: Feed small amounts twice daily to maintain their high metabolism.
Behaviour and Compatibility.
Schmard’s Tetra is a strictly schooling species. They must be kept in groups of at least 6 to 10 individuals to prevent stress and encourage natural swimming patterns.
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- Best Tankmates: Small rasboras, peaceful dwarf cichlids (like Apistogramma), Corydoras catfishes, and other peaceful tetras.
- Avoid: Large, aggressive, or overly boisterous fish that might outcompete them for food or view them as prey.
Breeding.
Breeding H. schmardae is challenging and similar to other small tetras.
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- Method: Egg scatterers with no parental care.
- Setup: A separate breeding tank with very soft water (pH 5.5) and spawning mops or fine-leaved plants (e.g., Java Moss).
- Light: The breeding tank should be kept dark, as the eggs are often light-sensitive.
- Fry Care: Once hatched, fry require infusoria or liquid fry food until they are large enough to accept baby brine shrimp.
💡 Key Tip: Use peat filtration or botanicals to stain the water a “tea colour.” The tannins not only replicate their natural blackwater habitat but also boost the fish’s immune system.
Convenient nationwide delivery; you’re only a click away!
Our nationwide delivery service makes it easy to receive your fish directly at your door, anywhere in the UK, for a flat rate of just £30. This convenient service allows you to order up to 10kg of fish, with the assurance that they will arrive in excellent condition. To make the fishes journey as comfortable as possible we use Oxygen in the fish bags and heat packs in all the boxes of fish we send out.
For your peace of mind we enclose a slip which will explain what to do in the event of a fish not traveling too well.
We use a licensed courier to deliver your fish directly to you door and will be with you by 1pm the next day.
Our delivery days are as follows:
Tuesday for Wednesday delivery
Wednesday for Thursday delivery
Thursday for Friday delivery
Please put your desired delivery day in the Order Notes on the Checkout page.
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