Rathbuni Bloodfin Tetra

The Rathbun’s Bloodfin Tetra is known from a huge variety of different habitats amongst the tributaries of the Rio Paraguay in South America, which themselves undergo large seasonal changes. As such, this species is adaptable to quite a wide range of aquarium conditions, although extremes should be avoided. A good amount of shady areas created with bogwood and plant cover, including floating species, will be much appreciated. As a shoaling species, Rathbun’s Bloodfin Tetras should be kept in groups of 6 or more of their own kind, ideally with more females than males. These beautiful fish are sometimes overlooked in the shops because they tend not show their best colours until settled into a secure planted environment. Also juveniles will often appear drab in comparison to stunning mature specimens. On the whole, Rathbun’s Bloodfin Tetras are mostly peaceful, although they cannot be trusted with fancy long-finned fish. May also be seen on sale as the Green Fire Tetra or simply Rathbun’s Bloodfin.

Feeding

Flake, micropellets, small frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, brineshrimp and daphnia.

Breeding

This species spawns in groups, and when kept in a heavily planted species-only tank, fry are very likely to appear from time to time. If you wish to raise a higher brood number, a separate spawning aquarium should be used. This should have a substrate of sterilised marbles and contain plenty of fine-leaved plants. Warm, soft water seems to be essential. After the eggs have been scattered, the parent fish should be removed to avoid predation.

• Species – Aphyocharax rathbuni
• Common Name – Rathbuni Bloodfin Tetra
• Origin – South America
• Diet – Omnivore
• PH Range – 6 – 7.5
• Temperature – Tropical 22-28°c
• Breed Type – egg layer
• Maximum Size – approximately 4cm
• Sex – Un-sexed