Diamond Tetra care guide

Diamond Tetra (Moenkhausia pittieri) — minimum tank 75 L, temperature 24-28 °C, pH 6-7.

Overview

The Diamond Tetra (Moenkhausia pittieri) is a deep-bodied characid from Lake Valencia and surrounding habitats in northern Venezuela. Adult fish show iridescent silver-violet scales that flash like diamonds, with males developing elongated dorsal fin filaments.

Taxonomy

Family: Characidae
Genus: Moenkhausia
Scientific name: Moenkhausia pittieri

Habitat

Endemic to Lake Valencia, the Rio Bue and adjacent lagoons in northern Venezuela, in shallow vegetated areas of soft, slightly acidic water.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 75 L (19.8 US gal)
Adult size: 5-6 cm
Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
pH: 6-7
GH: 2-10 °dGH
Water flow: low
Lifespan: 3-6 years
School size: ≥6 individuals

Diet

An omnivore. Offer flakes, micro-pellets and a variety of small live or frozen foods.

Compatibility

A peaceful mid-water shoaling species. Keep a group of at least six in a planted aquarium with subdued lighting. Compatible with other peaceful characins, Corydoras and small loricariids.

Breeding

An egg-scatterer that spawns in soft, slightly acidic water over fine-leaved plants. Remove parents after spawning.