The Blue Tetra is a peaceful, active schooling fish with a shimmering blue hue, perfect for community aquariums.
Overview
The Blue Tetra (Boehlkea fredcochui) is a small, vibrant fish known for its shimmering blue coloration. Originally from South American rivers, it thrives in well-maintained community tanks and adds a flash of color and activity. This peaceful species is ideal for aquarists looking to create a lively, harmonious tank environment.
Tank Requirements
Blue Tetras require a tank of at least 60 liters with water temperatures ranging from 22-28°C, a pH of 5.5-7.5, and a GH of 2-12. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water and do best in a well-decorated tank with plenty of open swimming space. A darker substrate enhances their coloration, while plants and driftwood can create a natural, shaded environment.
Feeding and Diet
As omnivores, Blue Tetras are not picky eaters. They thrive on a varied diet of high-quality flakes, small pellets, and occasional treats such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. Feeding them twice daily in small portions keeps them healthy and active.
Care and Maintenance
Blue Tetras are relatively easy to care for, requiring regular water changes (20-30% weekly) and good filtration. Monitoring water parameters is important, as they are sensitive to poor water quality. Proper lighting and tank cleanliness help maintain their vibrant coloration and health.
Compatibility
Blue Tetras are peaceful, making them suitable for community tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish. They are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six to prevent stress and encourage natural behavior. Suitable tank mates include other tetras, rasboras, and small catfish.
Breeding
Breeding Blue Tetras in captivity can be challenging due to specific water conditions required for spawning. They are egg scatterers, and a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water is recommended. Providing fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop can help collect the eggs. After spawning, the parents should be removed to prevent egg predation.