Scientific name: Moenkhausia pittieri

Common name: Diamond tetra

Family: Characidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 5 - 6 cm (1.97 - 2.36 inch)

014

Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 12°N (89.29 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 25 - 28 °C (77 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Diamond tetras will accept all foods offered. Use a quality flake for the staple diet but give then treats of blood worms and brine shrimp 2- 3 times per week. They will also need some vegetable matter adding to the tank in the form of spinach or peas.

Origin

South America; Diamond tetras are to be found in lake Valencia, Venezuela and its surrounding rivers.

Sexing

When the females are ripe, they will have fuller bodies and the males will have extended finnage.

Breeding

Spawning will normally take place at daybreak and the eggs will be scattered over fine leaved plants. The use of Java moss or spawning mops will aid this but remove the parents after spawning or they will attempt to eat the eggs. The fry can be fed on Infusoria initially and after a week they should accept newly hatched brine shrimp or crushed flake.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Moenkhausia pittieri is 3-5 years.

Short description

As with all tetras, Moenkhausia pittieri prefer to be kept in small groups. The tank should be planted but leave open swimming spaces. They prefer soft water but are tolerant of pH ranging from 6-7.