Head and Tail Light Tetra (Hemigrammus ocellifer) Care Guide

Named for the bright copper-gold spots at the base of the tail and behind the eye that glow like headlights under aquarium lighting.

Overview

Hemigrammus ocellifer is a species in the family Characidae. Named for the bright copper-gold spots at the base of the tail and behind the eye that glow like headlights under aquarium lighting. A hardy, undemanding species that does well in most community setups.

Taxonomy

Family: Characidae
Genus: Hemigrammus
Scientific name: Hemigrammus ocellifer
Other names: Beacon Fish
Origin: South America, Amazon Basin, Guyana

Habitat

Widely distributed across the Amazon basin and the Guianas. Inhabits clear and blackwater streams and floodplain lakes. Named for the reflective gold patches at the base of the tail and over the eye that appear to glow.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 60 L
Temperature: 22-28 °C
pH: 6-7.5
GH: 3-15 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 3-5 cm
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Recommended group size: ≥ 6
Difficulty: beginner

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Neon Tetra, Corydoras, Cherry Barb, Harlequin Rasbora
Avoid with: Oscar, Large Cichlids, Betta

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
Breeding difficulty: intermediate