Description
Buenos Aires Tetra – Hyphessobrycon anisitsi
Introduction:
The Buenos Aires Tetra (Hyphessobrycon anisitsi) is a hardy and energetic species native to the freshwater rivers and streams of Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil. Known for its silvery body with vibrant red fins, this tetra species is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts. Growing up to 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) in length, the Buenos Aires Tetra is a great addition to community aquariums due to its active behavior and striking appearance.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
- Natural Habitat: Buenos Aires Tetras are found in the freshwater rivers and tributaries of South America, where they inhabit areas with slow to moderate currents, abundant vegetation, and neutral to slightly acidic waters.
- Behavior: Buenos Aires Tetras are active and shoaling fish that prefer to live in groups of six or more. They are known for their playful nature and will often engage in swimming in tight formations. While peaceful, they can be somewhat territorial, especially when it comes to guarding their space within the school.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for a small school of Buenos Aires Tetras. Larger groups will require tanks of 30 gallons or more, ensuring there is plenty of space for them to swim and explore.
- Substrate: Buenos Aires Tetras prefer a soft, sandy substrate or fine gravel that won’t damage their delicate fins.
- Decor: These fish appreciate an aquarium with dense plants, driftwood, and open swimming spaces. While they enjoy having hiding spots, they are also active swimmers and need plenty of room to roam.
- Water Conditions: They thrive in neutral to slightly acidic water with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and a temperature range of 72°F to 80°F (22°C to 27°C). They are adaptable to different water conditions, but stable water parameters are important for their health.
- Lighting: Moderate lighting works well for Buenos Aires Tetras. Too much light can stress them, so providing shaded areas with floating plants or driftwood can help.
3. Diet and Feeding
- Diet: Buenos Aires Tetras are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, including flake foods, pellets, live or frozen foods, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. They are not picky eaters and will happily accept a wide variety of foods.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed your Buenos Aires Tetras 2 to 3 times a day, offering them enough food to consume within a few minutes. A varied diet, rich in both plant and protein matter, will ensure they remain healthy and active.
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
- Compatible Species: Buenos Aires Tetras are best kept in schools of six or more and make excellent tankmates for other peaceful species. Suitable companions include other tetras, rasboras, peaceful cichlids, and smaller catfish like Corydoras.
- Incompatible Species: Avoid keeping them with slow-moving fish with long fins, such as bettas, as Buenos Aires Tetras can sometimes nip at their fins. They may also be too active for very small or shy species.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Schooling Behavior: Buenos Aires Tetras are naturally schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6 individuals to reduce stress and promote natural behaviors. A small group will lead to anxious behavior and reduce their vibrant colors.
- Water Quality: These fish can tolerate a variety of water conditions but are sensitive to poor water quality. Regular water changes of 20-30% per week, combined with efficient filtration, will help maintain optimal water parameters and reduce the risk of disease.
- Nipping Behavior: In some cases, Buenos Aires Tetras may nip at the fins of slower or long-finned fish. Keeping them in large schools and with more active tankmates will help mitigate this behavior.
Conclusion:
The Buenos Aires Tetra (Hyphessobrycon anisitsi) is a colorful and active species that thrives in well-planted community tanks. With their bright colors, lively schooling behavior, and easy care requirements, they are a perfect choice for hobbyists looking for an energetic and attractive addition to their aquarium. As long as they are kept in proper group sizes and provided with the right environment, they will be a vibrant and rewarding species to keep.
