Caring for Alestopetersius brichardi, commonly known as the “Cherry Red Congo Tetra,” requires attention to their natural habitat and needs. These fish are native to the Congo River basin in Africa and thrive in a well-maintained freshwater aquarium. Here’s how to care for them:
Tank Requirements
-
Tank Size:
- A minimum of 20 gallons (75 liters) for a small group. Larger tanks (30+ gallons) are ideal for stability and behavior.
-
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72–80°F (22–27°C)
- pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Hardness: 5–12 dGH
-
Filtration:
- Use a gentle but effective filter to maintain clean, oxygenated water.
- Avoid strong currents, as they prefer calmer waters.
Aquascaping
-
Substrate:
- Fine sand or smooth gravel mimics their natural habitat.
-
Plants and Decor:
- Dense vegetation (live or artificial) for hiding spots.
- Driftwood or rocks for additional shelter and aesthetic.
-
Lighting:
- Moderate lighting to enhance their colors without stressing them.
Diet
-
Omnivorous: Provide a varied diet for optimal health.
- High-quality flake or pellet food as a staple.
- Live or frozen foods (e.g., brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms) to enhance coloration.
- Vegetables like blanched spinach or peas for fiber.
Behavior and Tankmates
-
Social Behavior:
- Peaceful schooling fish; keep in groups of at least 6–8 to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.
-
Tankmates:
- Non-aggressive species of similar size like other tetras, rasboras, or peaceful dwarf cichlids.
- Avoid large or aggressive species that might bully or eat them.
Maintenance
-
Water Changes:
- Perform 25–30% water changes weekly to maintain water quality.
-
Monitoring:
- Regularly test water parameters using reliable test kits.
- Watch for signs of stress or disease (e.g., loss of color, lethargy).
Breeding
- Breeding is challenging but possible.
- Set up a separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water (pH ~6.5).
- Use a spawning mop or fine-leaved plants for egg deposition.
- Remove adults after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.
- Feed fry with infusoria or liquid fry food until they can eat baby brine shrimp.
With proper care, the Cherry Red Congo Tetra will reward you with vibrant colors and lively activity, making them a beautiful addition to any freshwater aquarium!
