Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Live Plant Safe: Yes
General Description: The Congo Tetra is endemic to parts of the River Congo drainage in the Democratic Republic of Congo in Africa. All Congo tetra available within the aquarium trade are captive or commerically produced, however, due to their popularity. Congo tetra are often sold as somewhat drab juveniles in which they have not yet hit their potential. As adults, male Congo tetra will have yellow-orange and blue coloration in their bodies, with a pronounced dorsal and caudal fin. Females will also have some yellow coloration in their body, but no elaborate fins. Congo tetras are natural shoaling fish, thriving best with at least 6 individuals but more are encouraged. You can keep a mix of both males and females together. One of the larger tetras, an adult Congo tetra can reach a size of approximately 2-1/2″ to 3″, with males averaging slightly larger than females.
Diet Requirements: In the wild Congo tetra are omnivores. Offer a diet made up of various high quality vegetable based and protein based flake foods, sinking micro pellet foods and bug bites are ideal, in addition to offering frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.
Care Requirements: A minimum 30 gallon aquarium is ideal for a group of Congo tetra. This tetra should be added into a biologically established aquarium, as they cannot tolerate nitrite or ammonia. Additionally, Congo tetra are sensitive to deteriorating water parameters, so weekly water changes should be done to keep water chemistry pristine (Nitrates < 15 ppm). Aquascape the aquarium with driftwood or branches, floating plants and live plants. The aquarium should also have decent water movement. Despite their large size and activity level, Congo tetra are relatively peaceful and make for a striking display. Do not mix Congo tetra with species that will nip the male’s fins. Their size can be intimidating to some smaller, community-type fishes. Ideal tank mates include other tetras, rainbowfish, and certain peaceful cichlids. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 4-18, pH 6.0-7.5.
Purchase Size: XSmall: less than 1”, Small: 1”; Medium: 1-1/4” to 2”
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
