Blue tetra - Boehlkea fredcochui

Scientific name: Boehlkea fredcochui

Common name: Blue tetra

Family: Characidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 4 - 5 cm (1.57 - 1.97 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 26 °C (71.6 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Natural Habitat and Origin

The Blue Tetra (Boehlkea fredcochui) is native to the fast-moving streams and rivers of Peru, where they thrive in freshwater environments with moderate current. They are primarily found in shaded, densely vegetated waters, which mimic the kind of cover that these fish appreciate in aquariums as well. In the wild, their natural habitat allows them to school together for protection and engage in active swimming, much like they do in aquariums.

Lifespan

When provided with optimal water conditions and a stress-free environment, Blue Tetras can live up to 3 years in a well-maintained aquarium. Regular water changes and a stable environment will help maximize their lifespan.

Short Description and Behavior

The Blue Tetra is a visually striking species known for its metallic blue hue, but they require more space than most other tetras due to their active nature and occasional aggression. They thrive best in a minimum of 30-gallon tanks (25 Imperial gallons or 113 liters) to reduce territorial disputes and ensure that their energetic swimming has ample room. When confined to smaller tanks, their aggression can intensify, particularly toward fish with long, flowing fins, as they have a tendency to nip during feeding times. Keeping them in larger groups within a spacious tank can reduce this behavior, but a larger aquarium is essential to their overall well-being.

Blue Tetras are mid-level swimmers, often taking shelter among plants or hiding spots during the night. To accommodate their energetic swimming style, it's essential to create open spaces while positioning plants and décor around the edges of the tank. Opt for floating plants to help dim the lighting and create a more comfortable, natural environment. Due to their aggressive tendencies, especially in smaller groups or tanks, it is advisable to first gain experience by keeping more peaceful species of tetras before housing Blue Tetras.

Feeding and Diet

Blue Tetras are omnivores and will thrive on a well-balanced diet. Their primary food source should consist of high-quality flake or small pellet foods. To keep them in optimal health and encourage natural behavior, supplement their diet with protein-rich treats such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and other small live or frozen foods. Offering live foods 2-3 times per week can enhance their coloration and overall vitality. Be sure to provide a variety of food to meet their nutritional needs and stimulate their natural instincts for hunting small prey.

Sexing

Both male and female Blue Tetras share the same vibrant blue coloration. However, the female can be distinguished by her slightly plumper body, especially noticeable when viewed from above, while the males are generally slimmer and more streamlined.

Breeding Habits

There are currently no confirmed reports of successful breeding of Blue Tetras in captivity, but it is believed that they spawn similarly to other closely related species. In their natural habitat, they likely lay eggs on the underside of broad-leaved plants. Like many tetras, Blue Tetras show no parental care, and in the wild, they may leave the eggs unharmed due to the vastness of their environment. In a home aquarium, however, the parents are likely to consume the eggs unless they are separated.