Diamond Tetra - Moenkhausia pittieri : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Due to its shimmering scales that sparkle like diamonds under the right lighting conditions, the Diamond Tetra (Moenkhausia pittieri) is a captivating freshwater fish endemic to South America. Renowned for its peaceful demeanour, the Diamond Tetra makes an excellent addition to community tanks, cohabitating harmoniously with other fish of similar size and temperament. Its resilience and adaptability, coupled with its striking appearance, render Moenkhausia pittieri a favoured choice among aquarists seeking to enhance the beauty and biodiversity of their aquariums.
The Diamond Tetra, a serene shoaling species, flourishes when housed in groups of six or more within a mature community aquarium setting. It is observed that these Tetras may occasionally exhibit fin-nibbling behaviour towards fish with elaborate fins, such as Guppies, Angelfish, and Siamese Fighting Fish. To mitigate potential issues, it is advisable to pair them with species of comparable size and gentle nature, including Livebearers, Danios, and Rasboras, as well as tranquil bottom-dwelling fish like Corydoras and Plecostomus. Additionally, they are compatible with commonly found Gouramis and Dwarf Cichlids. The adult Diamond Tetra's robust shape and size render it an exemplary companion for docile Cichlids, including Geophagus and Discus, serving as an effective dither fish.
Creating optimal habitat conditions for Diamond Tetras involves setting up an aquarium rich in dense vegetation, complemented by a dark substrate and subdued lighting. An Amazonian biotope, replete with driftwood, intricately twisted roots, and dried leaves, emulates their natural environment, providing a conducive setting for their wellbeing.
Diamond Tetras are distinguished by their purple dorsal and anal fins, a luminous silver body, and a prominent red mark above the eye, alongside a dark longitudinal stripe. The iridescent scales that adorn their flanks, casting a sparkling effect, are the hallmark of the Diamond Tetra, embodying the essence of their common name and contributing to their allure in the aquatic hobby.
Diamond Tetra Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing male from female Diamond Tetras is relatively easy. Males exhibit a more pronounced dorsal fin than females, and their lower anal fin features a distinctive hook-like shape. Moreover, mature females are generally rounder and display less vibrancy than their male counterparts. Additionally, the scales of the male Diamond Tetras are more reflective compared to the scales of the female.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Moenkhausia pittieri |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1920 |
| Other Names | Diamond Characin |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Moenkhausia |
| Origins | Venezuela |
| Max Size | 6 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 5.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 12 |
| KH | 4 - 8 |
| ℉ | 75 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 23 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
Diamond Tetras are exclusively native to Lake Valencia and its adjacent water systems, where they reside in the languid streams teeming with dense vegetation and leaf detritus. Regrettably, the lake has been severely impacted by industrial and agricultural pollutants, leading to frequent algae blooms that confine Diamond Tetras to the shallower, plant-rich sections of the lake and its tributaries.
In spite of these environmental adversities, Diamond Tetras exhibit remarkable resilience, adeptly navigating and thriving within their distinctive habitats. They demonstrate an impressive ability to adapt to evolving conditions and prosper amid the abundant flora. Crafting an ideal habitat for Diamond Tetras within a home aquarium may demand some diligence, yet the endeavour is exceptionally rewarding. With their dazzling aesthetic and engaging demeanour, Diamond Tetras make a splendid contribution to any aquatic ensemble.
Breeding
To breed Diamond Tetras, a dedicated breeding tank with specific conditions is necessary. This should include soft water with a slightly elevated temperature and plenty of vegetation to provide shade for spawning. To produce the healthiest fry, select the strongest female and the most vibrant male and provide them with a diet rich in live food.
Spawning typically occurs in the early morning, with the female laying several hundred eggs that are fertilized by the male. Once this process is complete, it's essential to remove the parents from the tank to prevent them from consuming the eggs. Within 24 to 36 hours, the eggs will begin to hatch, and within 3 to 4 days, the fry will become free-swimming. These young fish grow at a relatively rapid pace, ensuring a beautiful addition to your aquarium in no time.
Diet & Feeding
Within an aquarium environment, Diamond Tetras demonstrate a robust appetite, eagerly accepting a diverse range of fish foods, encompassing flakes, granules, and small pellets. Moreover, the inclusion of live and frozen foods, notably Bloodworms and Daphnia, in their diet provides substantial nutritional advantages. Integrating these nutrient-rich food sources is instrumental in promoting their overall health, as well as in accentuating their vivid colouration and optimal physical condition.
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