Our Guide To Keeping Penguin Tetra Fish
-
About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Thayeria boehlkei
- Common name: Penguin Tetra
- Family: Characidae
- Origin: Amazon River Basin in South America
- Adult length: 3.5 to 4 cm
- Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
-
Tank Setup:
- Penguin Tetras thrive in a well-planted aquarium with ample swimming space. A tank size of 60L or more is recommended for a small group.
- Provide hiding places and floating plants to mimic their natural habitat. They appreciate plants like Hornwort, Water Sprite, and Java Moss.
-
Water Parameters:
- Penguin Tetras prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
- Maintain the water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).
-
Filtration and Water Flow:
- A gentle to moderate water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides adjustable flow settings.
-
Diet:
- Penguin Tetras are omnivores and accept a variety of foods. Offer them high-quality flake or micro-pellet food supplemented with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
-
Tank mates:
- Penguin Tetras are peaceful community fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals.
- They are compatible with other peaceful species like tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, and small catfish.
-
Behavior and Compatibility:
- Penguin Tetras are social and active swimmers, displaying shoaling behavior when kept in a group.
- Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish that may stress or harm them.