Longfin Tetra (Brycinus longipinnis) Care Guide
Brycinus longipinnis is a robust, active African characin in which mature males develop an elongated dorsal fin.
Overview
Brycinus longipinnis is a robust, highly active African characin. Mature males develop a notably elongated dorsal fin and a convex anal-fin profile. It is a hardy schooling species best kept in spacious tanks.
Taxonomy
- Family: Alestidae
- Genus: Brycinus
- Scientific name: Brycinus longipinnis
Habitat
Native to northern West Africa, ranging from Gambia to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Gabon. It inhabits large rivers and tributaries and occasionally enters brackish estuarine waters.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.8
- GH: 5-18 °dGH
- School size: at least 6 individuals
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
Diet
An omnivore with a strong protein demand. It accepts live, frozen and dried foods. Meaty fare such as chopped earthworm or prawn should be offered regularly.
Compatibility
A peaceful but highly active mid-water swimmer that should be kept in a group. It can coexist with larger community fish and is often combined with African cichlids and Synodontis catfish, but its activity may intimidate very small species, which are best avoided.
Breeding
An egg scatterer. Spawning is reported in fine-leaved plants in soft, acidic water (around 2-5 °dGH, pH 6.0-6.5) at the warmer end of the range. Eggs hatch in roughly 4-6 days, and fry first require infusoria, then newly hatched brine shrimp.