Aphyocharax paraguayensis
| Common Names: | Panda Tetra Rio Paraguay Tetra |
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| Family: | Characidae |
| Category: | Characins |
| Distribution: | America - South; Rio Paraguay Basin. |
| Main Ecosystem: | River; This species is found in rivers and streams. |
| Temperament: | Peaceful; This is generally a peaceful shoaling species, but like other species of the genus Aphyocharax, it is very active and may be inclined to nip the fins of long-finned fish. |
| Diet: | Carnivore; Live foods are preferred, but this tetra is far from picky and will accept most any food offered. |
| Care: | Because of the very active nature of this species, a large tank is required, preferably at least three feet in length. A group of six or more of this species should be kept, because although they are not particularly good schoolers, a group will prevent them from wanting to bother other species. This fish is not sensitive to light and the surface should be clear of floating plants to provide the maximum swimming area available. However, the bottom of the tank should ideally be densely planted, s |
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| Potential Size: | Male: 4cm (1.6") Female: 4cm (1.6") |
| Water Region: | Surface; This species spends nearly all of its time within a few inches of the surface of the water. |
| Activity: | Diurnal; This species is very active during the day, and by nighfall it descends closer to the gravel to rest. |
| Gender: | Females are slightly larger and plumper than males. |
| Breeding: | Not very well known, as nearly all commercially available specimens are wild-caught contaminants. Assumed to be very similar to other Aphyocharax species, which are egg scatterers and have spawning behavior that can be triggered by a 40% water change. |
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| Comments: | A rare species in the trade, the Rio Paraguay Tetra is usually only encountered accidentally when it appears as contaminant in a shipment of another species of tetra. Though not imported very often, this species is hardy and does well in captivity. This is one of the several species of tetra that mimics Corydoras hastatus in coloration. |
| Main Colours: | Silver, Black, White |
| Markings: | Spots Large |
| Mouth: | Upturned |
| Tail: | Forked |
| Search: | Show similar species Find compatible species |
| Image Credit: | ;Cory Addict |
| Submitted By: | Natalie |
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