Rummy nose tetra - Hemigrammus bleheri

Scientific name: Hemigrammus bleheri

Common name: Rummy nose tetra

Family: Characidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 3 - 4 cm (1.18 - 1.57 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 0 - 8°N (0 - 142.86ppm)

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: Bottom levels

Tank Requirements

Rummy Nose Tetras (Hemigrammus bleheri) are best kept in a well-planted aquarium that mimics their natural habitat. They thrive in soft, acidic to neutral water, making them ideal for Amazon-themed tanks. A minimum tank size of 60 liters (15 gallons) is recommended to accommodate a small school of these tetras, as they are a shoaling species and need to be kept in groups of at least six.

The ideal water conditions for Rummy Nose Tetras include a temperature range of 22-26°C (71.6-78.8°F), a pH of 6.0-7.0, and a water hardness between 0-8°N (0-142.86 ppm). Regular water changes and the use of a gentle filtration system are essential to maintain water quality, as this species is sensitive to fluctuations in water parameters. To replicate their natural environment, use soft substrate, and include plants such as Amazon Swords and Java Fern to provide hiding spots and shaded areas.

Tankmates

Rummy Nose Tetras are peaceful and do well in community tanks with other non-aggressive species. Ideal tankmates include small, similarly peaceful fish that share similar water parameter requirements. Suitable tankmates include:

Food and Feeding

Feeding Rummy Nose Tetras is straightforward, as they will accept a variety of foods. A staple diet of high-quality flake or small pellet food will keep them healthy. They will also enjoy occasional treats of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, or brine shrimp, which can help bring out their natural coloration. Feed them in small amounts twice daily, ensuring they consume the food within a few minutes to prevent water pollution.

Sexing

Rummy Nose Tetras are challenging to sex, as the differences between males and females are subtle. However, during spawning periods, females become rounder and more full-bodied as they carry eggs, making it easier to distinguish them from males.

Breeding

Breeding Rummy Nose Tetras in captivity can be challenging due to their sensitivity to water conditions. To encourage spawning, maintain water parameters on the softer and more acidic side, with a pH of around 6.0 and a temperature of 25-26°C (77-78.8°F). The use of subdued lighting and the addition of fine-leaved plants or spawning mops can create a suitable environment for egg-laying.

Once the eggs are laid, the parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. The eggs are prone to fungal infections, so it is crucial to sterilize all breeding equipment and maintain pristine water conditions. The eggs will hatch within 24-36 hours, and the fry will become free-swimming a few days later. Feed the fry with infusoria or liquid fry food initially, gradually introducing baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Lifespan

With proper care and stable water conditions, Rummy Nose Tetras can live for 5-6 years in captivity. Some specimens have been reported to live up to 8 years, provided they are kept in optimal conditions.

Short Description

Rummy Nose Tetras (Hemigrammus bleheri) are known for their striking red nose and shimmering silver bodies. They are often referred to as "aquarium canaries" due to their sensitivity to water conditions; their noses will turn pale if the water parameters are not ideal. This behavior makes them excellent indicators of the aquarium's health. Despite their delicate nature, they are a rewarding addition to a peaceful community tank, where their shoaling behavior and vibrant colors can be fully appreciated.