Rummy-nose tetra

Behaviour and habits

The rummy-nose tetra is a renowned schooler: a group moves and turns almost as one, and their bright red noses pale to pink when something is wrong, making them a natural early-warning system for the whole tank. They need warm, soft, acidic water and a mature setup, and they are far happier and more spectacular in a large group than in a few. If the noses fade, test the water.

What to feed, and how often

Small foods taken mid-water — micro-pellet, crushed flake and daphnia. Feed one or two light meals a day; they are timid feeders that want the food to drift to them and can be out-competed by bolder tankmates.

Water changes and maintenance

Change 20–25% weekly in warm, soft, acidic water, matched closely, and avoid sudden shifts. They are stress-sensitive and demand stability, so keep the parameters steady and never use cold water.

Care and how easy it is

Not a beginner tetra; it rewards a mature, soft-water, well-planted tank with a large group and consistent conditions.

Lifespan

With good conditions and steady water quality, this species typically lives around 5 years in a home aquarium; some individuals live longer.

Common health problems

Stress-sensitive; prone to ich and bacterial infections when the water or temperature swings.

If it gets sick

Act on the first sign — quarantine new fish, keep the water warm and stable, and treat ich early, watching the shoal for about a week after the spots fade.