Hemigrammus pulcher
Hemigrammus pulcher is a semi-popular aquarium species, also known as the pretty tetra, garnet tetra or black wedge tetra.[1] In the wild, the species is found near Iquitos in the Peruvian Amazon, and probably also in Brazil and Colombia.[1]
| Hemigrammus pulcher | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Characiformes |
| Family: | Characidae |
| Genus: | Hemigrammus |
| Species: | H. pulcher |
| Binomial name | |
| Hemigrammus pulcher Ladiges, 1938 | |
Physical Appearance
The H. pulcher has a pale-lemon background color with a black area on the flanks, up to the caudal penduncle.[2] Under subdued lighting, the H. pulcher's body appears iridescent.[2] It grows up to 4 cm. (1.5 in).[2]
Males can be distinguished from females through the shape of the swim bladder, which can be seen through the fish's semi-transparent body.[2] In males, the swim bladder is pointed, while in females, the swim bladder is rounded.[2]
In captivity
Aquarists keep this fish in water with temperatures ranging from 23 °C to 27 °C (73 °F to 81 °F) that is soft (50-100 mg/L) and acidic (pH 6.0).[2] The fish is reported to be peaceful and social.[2]
Aquarists recommend that it be fed prepared foods and small live foods.[2]
Breeding is difficult, as parents must be prevented from eating their own eggs. Eggs usually hatch within 20–24 hours.
The H. pulcher does best in groups of 6 or more.
References
- Chuctaya, J.; Ortega Torres, H.; Correa, E.; Reis, R.; Lima, F. (2016). "Hemigrammus pulcher". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2016: e.T167811A53822474. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-1.RLTS.T167811A53822474.en. Retrieved 12 November 2021.
- Alderton, David (2019). Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish. United Kingdom: Dorling Kindersley Limited. p. 96. ISBN 978-0-2413-6424-6.
External links