Tetra Kitty

Tetra Kitty, scientific name Hyphessobrycon heliacus, belongs to the Characidae family. The fish is native to South America. It is found in the basin of the Telis Piris River, which in turn is a tributary of the Tapajos River, which flows mainly in the Brazilian state of Para.

They inhabit shallow sections of rivers with calm water, places with a large amount of aquatic vegetation, and flooded snags.

Description

Adults reach a length of about 3 cm. The fish has a high diamond-shaped body. The coloring is golden. The edges of the translucent fins and tail have a reddish tint. There is a large black spot at the base of the caudal peduncle.

In males, as they grow older, there is a noticeable lengthening of the fins, especially the dorsal.

Behavior and Compatibility

Peaceful schooling fish. It is necessary to maintain the size of the group at least 8-10 individuals. With fewer numbers and in the company of larger species, Tetra Kitty can become overly shy.

Good compatibility is achieved with the same non-aggressive small fish from the Tetras, miniature Cyprinids and South American cichlids, Corydoras catfish and others.

Brief information:

• The volume of the aquarium – from 40 liters.
• Temperature – 24-28°C
• Value pH — 6.0–7.5
• Water hardness – 3–12 dGH
• Substrate type – dark soft
• Lighting – subdued
• Brackish water – no
• Water movement is weak
• The size of the fish is 2–3 cm.
• Feeding – any food of suitable size
• Temperament – peaceful
• Keeping in a flock of 8-10 individuals

Maintenance and care, arrangement of the aquarium

The optimal size of the aquarium for a flock of 8-10 fish starts from 40 liters. Fish can successfully adapt to different conditions. However, the most comfortable is the environment that is as close as possible to natural living conditions.

In the design, it is recommended to use dark soft substrates, a lot of aquatic plants, including floating ones for shading, various shelters, for example, from natural snags. At the bottom, you can place a layer of leaves of some trees.

Water conditions are desirably maintained in the range of mild, slightly acidic pH and GH values ​​with a high concentration of tannins. The already mentioned tree leaves, natural snags, as well as special emulsions added to the water according to the instructions can act as a source of tannins in the aquarium.

The content is simple. Tetra Kitty is unpretentious. The aquarist will need to regularly maintain the aquarium: remove accumulated waste, replace part of the water with fresh water, and carry out equipment maintenance.

Food

Omnivorous species. The basis of the diet can be popular dry food, as well as frozen and live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, etc.