Red Base Tetra

The Red Base Tetra, scientifically known as Hemigrammus stictus, is a stunning and peaceful freshwater fish native to the rivers and tributaries of South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin. Its vibrant red markings and active schooling behavior make it a visually striking addition to planted and community aquariums.

Physically, the Red Base Tetra features a slender, torpedo-shaped body with a silvery sheen that reflects beautifully under aquarium lighting. Its defining characteristic is the bright red coloration at the base of its tail fin (caudal peduncle), which contrasts vividly with its otherwise silvery body. The fins are generally translucent, and some individuals may display subtle yellow or red tints on the dorsal and anal fins. Adults grow to an average size of 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5 centimeters), making them ideal for small to medium-sized aquariums.

In the aquarium, the Red Base Tetra thrives in groups of six or more, as they are highly social and feel more secure in schools. A tank of at least 20 gallons is suitable for a small group, with larger tanks preferred for larger schools. The tank should include a soft substrate, live plants, driftwood, and rocks to create a naturalistic setup with plenty of hiding spots. Adding floating plants will diffuse light, mimicking their natural environment and enhancing their coloration.

Water parameters for the Red Base Tetra should reflect their natural habitat. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 and temperatures between 74 to 82°F (23 to 28°C). Clean, well-oxygenated water is crucial, so regular water changes and effective filtration are essential for their health.

Feeding Red Base Tetras is simple, as they are omnivorous and readily accept a variety of foods. A staple diet of high-quality flakes or micro-pellets should be supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms to maintain their vibrant coloration and overall health. Offering occasional vegetable-based foods, such as spirulina flakes or blanched spinach, can also benefit their diet.

Red Base Tetras are peaceful and make excellent tank mates for other small, non-aggressive species. They pair well with other tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and small gouramis. Avoid keeping them with larger or aggressive fish that might intimidate or prey on them.

Breeding Red Base Tetras in captivity is achievable with careful preparation. They are egg scatterers, and spawning can be encouraged by providing a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. After spawning, the adults should be removed to prevent them from consuming the eggs. The eggs hatch within 24 to 36 hours, and the fry become free-swimming in about three days. Fry can be fed infusoria or powdered fry food, transitioning to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Overall, the Red Base Tetra (Hemigrammus stictus) is a lively and colorful species that adds activity and vibrancy to freshwater aquariums. Their manageable size, striking red markings, and peaceful temperament make them an excellent choice for aquarists of all experience levels.