Elachys Tetra (Hyphessobrycon elachys)
| Elachys Tetra Hyphessobrycon elachys | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Name | Elachys Tetra |
| Name Lat. | Hyphessobrycon elachys |
| Family | Characins |
| Family lat. | Characidae |
| Order | Characins |
| Order lat. | Characiformes |
| Origin | Brazil, Paraguay |
| Habitat | Rivers, streams |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| pH | 6.0-7.0 |
| Behavior | Peaceful |
| Keeping | Group |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Reproduction | Egg scatterer |
| Breeding | Difficult |
| Life Span | 3-5 years |
| Protection | No |
| Metric Units | |
| Size | 2-2.5 cm |
| Temperature | 22-27 °C |
| Hardness | 4-15 °dH |
| Aquarium | ~ 60 l |
| US Units | |
| Size | 0.8"-1" |
| Temperature | 72-81 °F |
| Hardness | 71-267 ppm |
| Aquarium | ~ 15 gal |
Distribution and habitat
The reed tetra are native to the Rio Paraguay watershed in Brazil and Paraguay. They live in slow-flowing, small rivers and in the still water of streams with dense riparian vegetation as well as tree roots and branches protruding into the water.
Maintenance
The aquarium should have a varied, partly dense planting, with shelters and hiding places (roots) and provide sufficient swimming space. A dark substrate covered with some foliage (e.g. sea almond leaves), shaded light (floating plants), slightly acidic water and a weak current is ideal.
No ammonia, ammonium and nitrite should be detectable, the nitrate value should not exceed 100 mg/l. To ensure the water quality and oxygen content, a filter and heater adapted to the aquarium size is required, as well as lighting for the species-appropriate day-night rhythm of the animals.
Diet
In nature they feed mainly on small insects, insect larvae and plankton. The food supply consists of live, frozen and dry food. For a balanced diet, feed once a day with a high-quality, protein-rich dry food (flakes, granules, micro-pellets) as well as cyclops, moina, daphnia, artemia, etc. (live or frozen)
It is recommended to feed small portions several times a day. Only feed as much as will be eaten within a few minutes. A regular and varied diet promotes health and increases resistance.
Behaviour and compatibility
These peaceful and sociable fish are active swimmers and should only be socialized with other small, peaceful fish. They should be kept in a group of at least 8-10 animals
Basically, only mutually compatible fish species with similar requirements for water conditions and water temperature should be socialized.
Sex dimorphism
Males are more slender and have greatly elongated dorsal and ventral fins. Females are usually much more plump than males.
Reproduction and breeding
In soft, slightly acidic peat water they spawn up to 100 eggs mostly in the evening between fine-feathered plants (free spawners). The larvae hatch after about 36 hours and swim freely after about 4 days. The parents do not engage in brood care and should be separated from the fry after spawning, as they are spawn predators.
Juvenile fish must be fed several times a day with special rearing food (e.g. Artemia nauplii, dust food). Breeding is hardly possible in a community tank, as the spawn is easy prey.
Important
The pattern and coloration of Hyphessobrycon elachys is reminiscent of Corydoras hastatus. They show their most beautiful coloration in a not too brightly lit aquarium with rather darker substrate.
The foliage (sea almond tree, oak, etc.) enriches the water with humic substances, naturally lowers the pH and, when rotting, promotes the development of microorganisms, which are a valuable secondary food source.
The well-being of the fish should be monitored regularly. Temperature should be checked daily, pH, hardness and nitrate levels at least every 14 days. Regular partial water changes are recommended, even when contaminant levels have not yet reached the upper limit. Sudden changes in water quality should be avoided. Newly introduced fish must be accustomed slowly to the water in the aquarium.
Further literature can be found in your pet store.
References
Text: petdata; Image: Ruinemans Aquarium B.V.
Source: BMEL (1998): Tierschutzgutachten - Haltung von Zierfischen (Süßwasser); RIEHL & BAENSCH (2004): Aquarien Atlas Bd. 3, Mergus Verlag; ENGELMANN (2005): Zootierhaltung - Tiere in menschlicher Obhut: Fische, Verlag Harri Deutsch
- Gemäß § 21 Abs. 5 Tierschutzgesetz idgF