Buenos Aires Tetra

The Buenos Aires Tetra, scientifically known as Hyphessobrycon anisitsi, is a popular and hardy freshwater fish species that has long been a staple in the aquarium hobby. Native to the waterways of South America, specifically in Argentina, Uruguay, and parts of Brazil, these tetras are favored for their vibrant colors, active nature, and ease of care.

Appearance: Buenos Aires Tetras are known for their striking and eye-catching appearance. They have a streamlined and slightly elongated body shape, typically growing to around 2.5 to 3 inches (6.4 to 7.6 cm) in length when fully mature. Their base coloration is typically silvery or olive-green, adorned with a bright red or orange stripe that runs horizontally along their body, extending from their snout to the base of their tail fin. Additionally, these tetras feature a distinct black spot near the base of their caudal fin.

Behavior and Personality: These tetras are active swimmers, known for their lively and sociable behavior. They tend to swim in groups, creating a visually pleasing display of color and movement in the aquarium. Buenos Aires Tetras are generally peaceful but can display some nipping behavior, especially when kept in a small group or if their tank is too small. Therefore, it's advisable to keep them in a group of six or more to disperse any aggression.

Habitat and Care: Buenos Aires Tetras are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in aquariums with a minimum size of 20 gallons and benefit from a well-planted environment with open swimming spaces. Maintain a stable water temperature between 68°F to 78°F (20°C to 26°C) and a pH level ranging from 6.0 to 8.0.

Diet: These tetras are omnivorous and have a versatile diet. They readily accept high-quality flake foods, pellets, and a variety of live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Providing a balanced diet will help keep them healthy and maintain their vibrant colors.

Compatibility: Buenos Aires Tetras are typically peaceful but can exhibit some fin-nipping behavior, particularly with long-finned or slow-moving tankmates. Avoid housing them with fish species that have delicate or flowing fins. They are generally compatible with other community fish that share similar water parameter requirements.