Hyphessobrycon wadai, a species of tetra native to freshwater environments in South America, is not only beautiful but also relatively easy to care for with the right setup. Here's how to keep them healthy and thriving in your aquarium:
1. Tank Setup
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Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons (75 liters) for a small school of 6-8 individuals.
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Aquascaping:
- Provide plenty of plants for cover, such as Java moss, Anubias, or Vallisneria.
- Use driftwood and rocks to mimic their natural habitat.
- Add leaf litter for a more natural biotope and to create tannin-rich, slightly acidic water.
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Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel.
2. Water Parameters
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Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C).
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pH: 6.0-7.5, ideally slightly acidic to neutral.
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Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (1-12 dGH).
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Filtration: Use a gentle filter that creates minimal water movement, as they prefer calm waters.
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Water Changes: Regular weekly water changes (25-30%) to maintain pristine water quality.
3. Diet
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Staple Food: High-quality flake or micro-pellet food formulated for small tropical fish.
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Treats: Supplement with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms to enhance coloration and health.
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Frequency: Feed 1-2 times daily in small amounts they can consume in a few minutes.
4. Behavior and Tankmates
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Social Nature: Schooling fish, best kept in groups of 6 or more.
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Tankmates: Peaceful community fish such as other small tetras, rasboras, Corydoras catfish, and dwarf shrimp.
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Avoid: Aggressive or very large fish that may bully or eat them.
5. Breeding
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Setup: Use a separate breeding tank with fine-leafed plants or a spawning mop for egg laying.
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Conditions: Slightly warmer water (75-79°F) and slightly acidic pH (6.0-6.5).
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Spawning Behavior: Females scatter eggs, which males fertilize. Remove adults after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.
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Raising Fry: Feed fry infusoria or powdered fry food until they are large enough for baby brine shrimp.
6. Additional Tips
- Keep a close eye on water quality; they are sensitive to poor conditions.
- Provide a dimly lit environment or floating plants to diffuse light, which they prefer.
With proper care, Hyphessobrycon wadai can live for 3-5 years in captivity and bring vibrant energy to your aquarium.
