Hemigrammus ocellifer, known as the Head and Tail Light Tetra, is a small, peaceful, and easy-to-care-for species, perfect for community aquariums.
Overview
Hemigrammus ocellifer, commonly known as the Head and Tail Light Tetra, is a popular freshwater fish from the Amazon Basin in South America. It gets its name from the distinctive reflective spots at the base of its tail and behind its eyes, resembling tiny lights. This small, schooling fish typically grows to 4-5 cm in length and can live for 5-7 years in a well-maintained aquarium. Hemigrammus ocellifer is an excellent choice for community tanks due to its peaceful nature and striking appearance.
Tank Requirements
The Head and Tail Light Tetra thrives in a well-planted aquarium with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 60 liters is recommended, with water temperatures between 22-28°C, a pH range of 6.0-7.5, and general hardness (GH) of 4-15. These tetras prefer subdued lighting and dark substrates that mimic their natural environment. A gentle water flow, achieved with a filter, is ideal. Ensure the tank has plenty of plants, such as Java moss or Anubias, and open areas for swimming.
Feeding and Diet
In the wild, Hemigrammus ocellifer feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet consisting of high-quality flake food, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Feeding small amounts multiple times a day will keep them healthy and enhance their coloration. Providing a balanced diet will also help in maintaining their overall health and longevity.
Care and Maintenance
Hemigrammus ocellifer is relatively easy to care for, making it suitable for beginner aquarists. Regular water changes of 20-25% weekly are essential to maintain water quality. Since these fish are sensitive to poor water conditions, monitoring parameters such as temperature, pH, and hardness is crucial. A clean and stable environment will help prevent common diseases like ich. Additionally, it's important to maintain good filtration and ensure the tank is cycled before introducing the fish.
Compatibility
The Head and Tail Light Tetra is a peaceful species that does well in a community aquarium. They should be kept in schools of at least six individuals to ensure they feel secure. Suitable tank mates include other small, non-aggressive fish such as rasboras, small tetras, Corydoras catfish, and dwarf gouramis. Avoid keeping them with larger, aggressive species that may see them as prey. Their peaceful demeanor and compatibility with various species make them a great choice for a harmonious aquarium.
Breeding
Breeding Hemigrammus ocellifer in captivity can be challenging but is achievable with the right conditions. A separate breeding tank with slightly acidic water (pH 6.0-6.5) and a temperature around 26-28°C is recommended. The breeding tank should be dimly lit, with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop where the female can scatter eggs. Conditioning the breeding pair with live foods will increase the chances of successful spawning. After spawning, the adults should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs typically hatch within 24-36 hours, and the fry can be fed infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp until they are large enough to accept larger foods.