Congo Tetra care guide
Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus) — minimum tank 100 L, temperature 23-28 °C, pH 6-7.5.
Overview
The Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus) is an iridescent alestid native to the Congo River basin in Central Africa. Mature males display flowing, frayed-looking dorsal and caudal fins and a body that shifts colour from blue and turquoise to gold under aquarium lighting.
Taxonomy
- Family: Alestiidae
- Genus: Phenacogrammus
- Scientific name: Phenacogrammus interruptus
Habitat
Native to slow-flowing tributaries of the central Congo River basin in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic water with dense vegetation along banks.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L (26.4 US gal)
- Adult size: 6-8 cm
- Temperature: 23-28 °C (73-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- School size: ≥6 individuals
Diet
An omnivore. Offer flakes, pellets and a variety of small live or frozen foods (daphnia, bloodworms, brine shrimp).
Compatibility
A peaceful schooling species. Keep a group of at least six in a long, well-planted aquarium with subdued lighting that emphasises the iridescence. Avoid combinations with fin-nippers that may damage the males’ extended fins.
Breeding
An egg-scatterer. Spawning is induced by soft, slightly acidic water and bright morning lighting; eggs are scattered over fine-leaved plants and sink to the substrate. Remove parents after spawning.