Blood Cap Moon Tetra

The Blood Cap Moon Tetra, scientifically known as Bathyaethiops breuseghemi, is a small, rare species of tetra native to the Congo River basin in Central Africa. It inhabits slow-moving streams and rivers with dense vegetation and subdued lighting, and is known in the aquarium trade for its metallic silver body and the distinctive red “blood cap” marking on the top of its head.

Adult Blood Cap Moon Tetras typically reach about 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm) in length. Their bodies are slender and silvery with a brilliant, reflective sheen, and mature specimens display a bold red patch on the crown, just behind the eyes. The fins are mostly clear or faintly yellow, and males are slimmer and more colorful, especially during breeding. Females are rounder with more muted coloration.

A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a small school. Blood Cap Moon Tetras are peaceful, shoaling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six to eight individuals. The aquarium should be set up with soft sand or fine gravel substrate, plenty of driftwood and rocks, and dense plantings to provide cover and replicate their natural habitat. Floating plants or botanicals are recommended to diffuse light and bring out their iridescent colors.

Water parameters should include a temperature of 72 to 78°F (22 to 26°C), a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. Regular water changes and gentle filtration are important for their long-term health and color.

Feeding the Blood Cap Moon Tetra is easy, as they are omnivorous and readily accept a wide range of small foods. Offer high-quality micro pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as daphnia, baby brine shrimp, and cyclops. Their small mouths require finely sized food.

Blood Cap Moon Tetras are peaceful community fish and can be kept with other small, gentle species such as African tetras, pencilfish, Corydoras, and peaceful dwarf cichlids. Avoid aggressive or much larger fish that may outcompete or intimidate them.

Breeding Blood Cap Moon Tetras in captivity is rarely attempted but possible. They are typical egg scatterers, with no parental care. A separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water, fine-leaved plants, and low lighting can encourage spawning. Remove adults after eggs are laid to prevent predation.

Bathyaethiops breuseghemi (Blood Cap Moon Tetra) is a peaceful, shimmering species that adds unique beauty and subtle color to African or blackwater community aquariums.