Hemigrammus caudovittatus (Flamingo Tetra)

Overview

The Flamingo Tetra, often identified under the synonym Hyphessobrycon anisitsi (commonly known as the Buenos Aires Tetra), is one of the hardiest and most adaptable tetras available in the aquarium hobby. Its durability makes it a fantastic choice for beginners, though its energetic and sometimes boisterous nature means it requires a well-planned community setup.

Distribution and Habitat

This species is native to the subtropical and tropical waters of South America, specifically found in the Paraná and Uruguay River basins. They inhabit a wide variety of environments, from slow-moving streams and tributaries to ponds and lakes, thriving in areas with ample vegetation and woody debris.

Description of Flamingo Tetra

Body shape:

They possess a classic, deep-bodied tetra profile that is laterally compressed, giving them a robust and sturdy appearance compared to smaller, sleeker tetra species.

Color:

The body is predominantly a shimmering, metallic silver. A striking black diamond or cross-shaped mark is prominently displayed on the caudal peduncle (the base of the tail).

Barbels:

Like all characins, they do not have barbels.

Snout:

The snout is relatively short and blunt, equipped with small but sharp teeth adapted for their omnivorous diet.

Eyes:

They have large, alert eyes. The upper part of the iris often features a distinct reddish or orange hue.

Fins:

The dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins often carry a reddish, pinkish, or "flamingo" tint, which becomes more vibrant when the fish is in prime condition or breeding.

The Tail:

The tail is deeply forked and typically showcases a wash of red or pink coloration, accented by the bold black marking at its base.

Temper

While generally peaceful in a proper environment, they fall into the semi-aggressive category due to their notorious fin-nipping habits. They should not be kept with slow-moving or long-finned fish like Angelfish, Bettas, or Guppies.

Sociality

This is a highly social, schooling species. They must be kept in groups of at least 6 to 8 individuals. Keeping them in larger schools helps disperse their nipping behavior among themselves rather than targeting other tank mates.

Activity

Flamingo Tetras are incredibly active mid-water swimmers. They are constantly on the move, exploring the aquarium and interacting with one another.

Keeping and Caring for Flamingo Tetra

Tank size:

Due to their size and high activity levels, a minimum tank size of 30 gallons (approx. 110 liters) is required to provide them with adequate swimming space.

Water Parameters:

Temperature

They are highly adaptable and can thrive in temperatures ranging from 18-28°C (64-82°F), often doing well in unheated aquariums in warm homes.

pH

They tolerate a wide pH range, ideally between 6.0 and 8.0.

Hardness

Water hardness can range broadly from 2 to 30 dGH.

Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate

Ammonia and Nitrite must be kept at 0 ppm. Nitrates should be maintained below 20 ppm through regular water changes.

Lighting

Moderate lighting is sufficient, though they will show their best colors under slightly subdued lighting or with floating plants.

Water flow

A moderate water flow mimics their natural riverine habitats and provides them with a current to swim against.

Decorations and Plants

Caution is needed with plants, as Flamingo Tetras are known to devour soft-leaved aquatic plants. Stick to tough, unpalatable plants like Anubias, Java Fern, or high-quality artificial plants. Provide plenty of open swimming space alongside driftwood and rock formations.

Diet

They are unfussy omnivores. In the aquarium, they will readily accept high-quality flake foods, micro-pellets, and a variety of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. They also require plant matter in their diet.

Some Feeding Tips

To curb their appetite for your aquarium plants, supplement their diet with blanched vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or lettuce, as well as spirulina-based flakes.

Breeding

Breeding is relatively easy. They are egg-scatterers that provide no parental care. To breed them, set up a separate breeding tank with a sponge filter, dim lighting, and a spawning mop or mesh to protect the eggs. Condition the breeders with high-quality live foods. Once spawning occurs, the parents must be removed immediately to prevent them from eating the eggs. The fry will hatch in a few days and can be fed infusoria until they are large enough for baby brine shrimp.

Conclusion

The Flamingo Tetra is a resilient, active, and visually appealing fish that brings constant movement to a freshwater aquarium. While their affinity for eating plants and nipping fins requires mindful planning, their hardiness makes them an excellent choice for aquarists looking for a robust and lively schooling fish.