About the Diamond Tetra
Name: Diamond Tetra
Max Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
Recommend pH: 6.0-7.5
Recommended Temperature (°F): 75-82°F (24-28°C)
Diet: Diamond Tetras are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods. They can be fed high-quality flake foods, small pellets, and freeze-dried or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. They also appreciate live foods like small insects and insect larvae. Including some vegetable matter in their diet, such as spirulina-based flakes or blanched vegetables, is beneficial.
Temperament: Peaceful
Schooling or Non-Schooling Fish: Schooling Fish (Diamond Tetras are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals to create a natural social structure and minimize stress.)
Possible types of tank mates: Diamond Tetras are peaceful and can be kept with other small, peaceful community fish. They are compatible with other tetras, rasboras, guppies, and other non-aggressive species. Avoid keeping them with large or aggressive fish that may intimidate or harm them.
Behavior: Diamond Tetras, also known as Moenkhausia pittieri, are beautiful and active fish that add a touch of elegance to any aquarium. They have a slender body with shimmering silver scales and a diamond-shaped black patch located towards the posterior of their body. Diamond Tetras are peaceful and social creatures that thrive when kept in a school. They exhibit fascinating schooling behavior, swimming together in synchronized movements. This behavior not only creates a visually stunning display but also serves as a defense mechanism against predators. Diamond Tetras are active swimmers and appreciate a well-planted aquarium with open swimming space. They may occasionally explore the middle and upper levels of the tank, adding depth to their movement patterns.
Fun Fact: Diamond Tetras are native to the rivers and streams of Costa Rica and Nicaragua in Central America. They are named for the sparkling diamond-shaped patch on their body. Interestingly, the diamond patch of each individual fish is unique, much like a fingerprint. This distinct marking adds to their charm and makes them easily recognizable. Diamond Tetras are also known for their iridescent scales that reflect light, creating a beautiful shimmering effect in the aquarium. Their peaceful nature, stunning appearance, and active behavior make them a popular choice among aquarists, especially for community tanks and planted setups.