Ruby Tetra
The Ruby Tetra, scientifically known as Axelrodia riesei, is a captivating and vibrant freshwater fish species admired by aquarists for its brilliant red coloration and peaceful temperament. Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of Colombia, particularly in the Rio Meta basin, this small tetra adds a splash of color and elegance to well-planted community aquariums.
Physically, the Ruby Tetra is known for its striking, ruby-red body, which gives the fish its common name. The intensity of the red coloration can vary, but under good lighting and proper care, these fish display a deep, almost jewel-like red hue. The fins are typically translucent, with subtle hints of red or pink, adding to the overall delicate appearance of the fish. Mature specimens are quite small, typically reaching lengths of around 0.8 to 1 inch (2 to 2.5 centimeters), making them ideal for nano aquariums and smaller community tanks.
In aquariums, Ruby Tetras thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots and gentle water flow to replicate their natural habitat. They prefer a dark substrate and a densely planted environment with floating plants, which help diffuse the light and bring out their best colors. These tetras are peaceful and should be kept in groups of at least six to eight individuals, as they are schooling fish and feel most secure when surrounded by others of their kind.
Water parameters for Ruby Tetras should closely resemble those of their native environment. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 and temperatures between 72 to 78°F (22 to 26°C). Regular water changes and good filtration are essential to maintaining the clean, stable water conditions these fish require for optimal health and coloration.
Feeding Ruby Tetras is relatively straightforward, as they are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods. They eagerly consume high-quality micro-pellets, flakes, and granules, as well as live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Providing a varied diet helps maintain their vibrant coloration and overall health.
Breeding Ruby Tetras in captivity can be challenging but is possible with the right conditions. To encourage breeding, provide a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for the eggs to adhere to. After spawning, the parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs typically hatch within 24 to 36 hours, and the fry can be raised on infusoria or other microscopic foods until they are large enough to consume baby brine shrimp or finely powdered fry food.
Overall, the Ruby Tetra (*Axelrodia riesei*) is a stunning and valuable addition to freshwater aquariums, prized for its vibrant red coloration, peaceful nature, and ease of care. With proper attention to their specific requirements, these beautiful tetras can thrive and bring a touch of elegance and color to aquarists of all levels of experience, enhancing the beauty and tranquility of any aquatic environment.
The Ruby Tetra, scientifically known as Axelrodia riesei, is a captivating and vibrant freshwater fish species admired by aquarists for its brilliant red coloration and peaceful temperament. Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of Colombia, particularly in the Rio Meta basin, this small tetra adds a splash of color and elegance to well-planted community aquariums.
Physically, the Ruby Tetra is known for its striking, ruby-red body, which gives the fish its common name. The intensity of the red coloration can vary, but under good lighting and proper care, these fish display a deep, almost jewel-like red hue. The fins are typically translucent, with subtle hints of red or pink, adding to the overall delicate appearance of the fish. Mature specimens are quite small, typically reaching lengths of around 0.8 to 1 inch (2 to 2.5 centimeters), making them ideal for nano aquariums and smaller community tanks.
In aquariums, Ruby Tetras thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots and gentle water flow to replicate their natural habitat. They prefer a dark substrate and a densely planted environment with floating plants, which help diffuse the light and bring out their best colors. These tetras are peaceful and should be kept in groups of at least six to eight individuals, as they are schooling fish and feel most secure when surrounded by others of their kind.
Water parameters for Ruby Tetras should closely resemble those of their native environment. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 and temperatures between 72 to 78°F (22 to 26°C). Regular water changes and good filtration are essential to maintaining the clean, stable water conditions these fish require for optimal health and coloration.
Feeding Ruby Tetras is relatively straightforward, as they are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods. They eagerly consume high-quality micro-pellets, flakes, and granules, as well as live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Providing a varied diet helps maintain their vibrant coloration and overall health.
Breeding Ruby Tetras in captivity can be challenging but is possible with the right conditions. To encourage breeding, provide a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for the eggs to adhere to. After spawning, the parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs typically hatch within 24 to 36 hours, and the fry can be raised on infusoria or other microscopic foods until they are large enough to consume baby brine shrimp or finely powdered fry food.
Overall, the Ruby Tetra (*Axelrodia riesei*) is a stunning and valuable addition to freshwater aquariums, prized for its vibrant red coloration, peaceful nature, and ease of care. With proper attention to their specific requirements, these beautiful tetras can thrive and bring a touch of elegance and color to aquarists of all levels of experience, enhancing the beauty and tranquility of any aquatic environment.
The Ruby Tetra, scientifically known as Axelrodia riesei, is a captivating and vibrant freshwater fish species admired by aquarists for its brilliant red coloration and peaceful temperament. Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of Colombia, particularly in the Rio Meta basin, this small tetra adds a splash of color and elegance to well-planted community aquariums.
Physically, the Ruby Tetra is known for its striking, ruby-red body, which gives the fish its common name. The intensity of the red coloration can vary, but under good lighting and proper care, these fish display a deep, almost jewel-like red hue. The fins are typically translucent, with subtle hints of red or pink, adding to the overall delicate appearance of the fish. Mature specimens are quite small, typically reaching lengths of around 0.8 to 1 inch (2 to 2.5 centimeters), making them ideal for nano aquariums and smaller community tanks.
In aquariums, Ruby Tetras thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots and gentle water flow to replicate their natural habitat. They prefer a dark substrate and a densely planted environment with floating plants, which help diffuse the light and bring out their best colors. These tetras are peaceful and should be kept in groups of at least six to eight individuals, as they are schooling fish and feel most secure when surrounded by others of their kind.
Water parameters for Ruby Tetras should closely resemble those of their native environment. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 and temperatures between 72 to 78°F (22 to 26°C). Regular water changes and good filtration are essential to maintaining the clean, stable water conditions these fish require for optimal health and coloration.
Feeding Ruby Tetras is relatively straightforward, as they are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods. They eagerly consume high-quality micro-pellets, flakes, and granules, as well as live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Providing a varied diet helps maintain their vibrant coloration and overall health.
Breeding Ruby Tetras in captivity can be challenging but is possible with the right conditions. To encourage breeding, provide a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for the eggs to adhere to. After spawning, the parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs typically hatch within 24 to 36 hours, and the fry can be raised on infusoria or other microscopic foods until they are large enough to consume baby brine shrimp or finely powdered fry food.
Overall, the Ruby Tetra (*Axelrodia riesei*) is a stunning and valuable addition to freshwater aquariums, prized for its vibrant red coloration, peaceful nature, and ease of care. With proper attention to their specific requirements, these beautiful tetras can thrive and bring a touch of elegance and color to aquarists of all levels of experience, enhancing the beauty and tranquility of any aquatic environment.
