False Rummynose Tetra Care Guide
Petitella georgiae, the false rummynose, is a slim red-headed characin from the Rio Purus and other basins, widely traded as a rummynose substitute.
Overview
Petitella georgiae, the false rummynose, is a slim characin whose red head colour stops near the gill plate. It is widely traded as a substitute for the true rummynose and is distinguished by a broader lateral line running into the body.
Taxonomy
- Family: Characidae (order Characiformes)
- Genus: Petitella
- Scientific name: Petitella georgiae
Habitat
Seriously Fish records the species from the Rio Purus in Peru and Brazil, and from the Rio Negro and Rio Madeira in Brazil, mainly in clear-water tributaries and small rivers.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L (Seriously Fish suggests a base length of at least 90 cm)
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (Seriously Fish reports 22-26 °C)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- GH: 1-8 °dGH (Seriously Fish 1-12 dH)
- Maximum size: about 5 cm (Seriously Fish)
- School size: 10 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 5-7 years
Diet
It is omnivorous with a small mouth; Seriously Fish recommends finely ground dried foods plus small live and frozen foods such as Daphnia or Artemia.
Compatibility
A very peaceful, tight-schooling fish, it should be kept in groups of at least 10 and does not compete well with boisterous or much larger tankmates. It suits Cardinal tetras, discus and angelfish; aggressive cichlids should be avoided.
Breeding
Seriously Fish describes it as moderately difficult to breed, preferring soft, acidic water around pH 5.5-6.5; eggs hatch in about 24-36 hours and fry require infusoria initially.