Rhodesia

Rhoadsia altipinna, scientific name Rhoadsia altipinna, belongs to the Characidae family (Characinaceae). It comes from South America, inhabits river systems, mainly flowing in the territory of Ecuador and flowing into the Pacific Ocean.

Description

In nature, adults reach a size of 17 cm, but in the cramped spaces of a home aquarium they rarely grow more than 10–12 cm. The indicated sizes refer to males. The females are noticeably smaller. The coloration is silver. Depending on the lighting, iridescent hues may appear. There is a large black spot on the caudal part of the body.

Brief information:

• The volume of the aquarium – from 200 liters.
• Temperature – 22-26°C
• Value pH — 6.0–7.0
• Water hardness – 5–15 dH
• Substrate type – any dark
• Lighting – subdued
• Brackish water – no
• Water movement – light or moderate
• The size of the fish is 10–12 cm.
• Food – any food
• Temperament – conditionally peaceful
• Keeping in a group of 5-6 individuals

Behavior and Compatibility

Active temperamental fish. Prefers to be in a group, so it is recommended to purchase in the amount of 5-6 individuals. It is not a territorial species, however, with a lack of space, it may show signs of aggression towards smaller and slower aquarium neighbors. In addition, Rhoadsia tend to damage other people’s fins.

Compatible with similarly sized mobile fish that live in the upper layer of water, and strong catfish, for example, from among the Bronyakovs, Plecostomus, etc.

Maintenance and care, arrangement of the aquarium

The optimal size of the aquarium for a small flock of these fish starts from 200 liters. The design must provide for places for shelters and free areas for swimming. Any dark soil: sandy, pebbly, etc. Lighting is subdued. Floating plants can provide additional shading. If the light is too bright, the color of the fish will fade.

In nature, fish are found in a variety of environments – from small fast rivers to stagnant swamps subject to heavy rainfall, including estuaries with brackish water. Acclimatized individuals or those already born in aquariums are usually kept in slightly acid soft water. Before purchasing, it is important to clarify the conditions in which the Rhoadsia are located in order to recreate a similar environment.

Food

It is considered an omnivorous species. Accepts various products in dry, frozen and live form. Preference should be given to foods rich in protein.