From Aqua Guide, the free encyclopedia
Head and Tail Light Tetra
Hemigrammus ocellifer
- Temperature
- 24–28 °C
- pH
- 5.5 – 7.5
- Min. tank size
- 68 L
- Lifespan
- 5 years
- Diet
- omnivore
- Care level
- easy
| Scientific classification | |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name: | Hemigrammus ocellifer |
| Family: | Acestrorhamphidae |
| Origin: | South America (Amazon basin, Guianas) |
| Care Characteristics | |
| Care Level: | easy |
| Diet: | omnivore |
| Max Size: | 4.50 cm |
| Water Type: | freshwater |
| Temp Group: | tropical |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Group: | 6+ together |
| Varieties: | An albino variant exists and is widely traded, with identical care requirements — a pale pink-white fish in which the two copper spots remain visible and the eyes are red. There are no other established strains, and the wild-type fish is what most shops sell. The species is sometimes called the beacon tetra, and both names refer to the same fish. Two forms circulate in the trade under this name, differing slightly in the extent of the black marking at the tail base, and there has been discussion of whether more than one species is involved. The genus Hemigrammus contains several other familiar community tetras: the glowlight tetra, the rummynose tetra, the gold tetra and the pretty tetra. All have similar requirements and mix happily. For a first tetra in a new community tank, this species and the glowlight are the two most commonly recommended, and both deserve it. |
| Lifespan: | 5 years |
Quick Tips
- Bioload:Low
- Min Tank:68 L
- Substrate:Dark sand/gravel; planted with swimming space
- Plant Safe:Plant-safe
- Filtration:Moderate
Head and Tail Light Tetra (Hemigrammus ocellifer) is a species of fish in the family Acestrorhamphidae. It is native to South America (Amazon basin, Guianas). The head and tail light tetra is one of the genuinely good beginner fish, and its markings explain the name: a glowing copper-gold spot above the eye and another at the base of the tail, both of which catch the light like small lamps on an otherwise plain silver body. It is also called the beacon tetra for the same reason. It reaches 45 mm standard length, is hardy and inexpensive, and specialists rate it as one of the best choices for the newcomer to fishkeeping — which is a genuine endorsement rather than a marketing line. It is peaceful and lively, tolerates a wide range of water at pH 5.5 to 7.5 and 5 to 20 dGH, and asks only for a proper group: at least six, preferably ten or more. An albino form exists with identical care requirements.
Compatibility
- Temperament
- peaceful
- Keep in
- Groups of 6+
- Swims
- middle
- Fin nipper
- No
- Delicate fins
- No
Species similar to Head and Tail Light Tetra
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