This is a distinctive looking little tetra with black and white "checkerboard" markings on its tail and a bright red nose, for which it is named. The fish grows to a length of around 5 cm. It is very pretty and peaceful tetra that spends its time actively schooling with others tetras. The fish prefers to live between the plants and hence aquarium may be provided with artificial plants. The ideal water quality conditions for this species are temperature 23-29 0C, pH 6.0 to 7.5 and hardness soft to neutral. They feed on plankton and small meat items. Feeding these fish in aquarium is easy as they accept all type of flakes, pellet foods and a treat of blood worms. Feeds specially made for tetras are highly suitable. Identification of female can be made when fish is fully gravid of egg. However breeding in aquarium is difficult. The normal life span is 5-6 years. |
