Fish Profiles: Balloon Red Eye Tetra
Native to river basin areas of South America (Brazil) the hardy Balloon Red Eye Tetra is great for beginners of a tropical freshwater aquarium. They live best in planted tanks and like to be in groups. So named for their balloon-shaped extended underside of their bodies and distinctive red eye rim, they are a variant of the standard "red eye tetra" which sports the same colouring on a slimmer body.
The name “Balloon Red-Eye Tetra” comes from their notable features. “Balloon” refers to their round, puffed-up body shape, which is quite distinct compared to other tetras. “Red-Eye” is a nod to their striking red eyes, which are one of their most defining characteristics. The combination makes them easy to identify and remember.
They originate from the river basins of South America, particularly in Brazil. Their natural habitat includes slow-moving rivers and streams, where the water is warm and full of plant life. So, they are used to lush, vegetated areas.
The Balloon Red-Eyed Tetra is a unique freshwater fish, known for its silvery hue and lively demeanor. Native to South America, specifically Brazil, these tetras thrive in schools and are beginner-friendly due to their easy care. Their preferred tank setup includes plenty of plants, a temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C), and a pH of 6.0-7.5.
Features
Typical purchase size: 3cm
Maximum size: 6cm
Origin: South America
Family: Characidae
Ideal number kept together: 5+
Water conditions
Ideal pH: 6.0-7.5
Ideal hardness: 18-179 ppm
Ideal temperature: 24–28 °C
Ease of care
Balloon Red Eye Tetra are easy to care for, and great for beginners. They are a schooling tropical fish, and will thrive in groups of 6 or more in planted aquariums.
Diet
Red Eye Tetra are omnivorous, and will typically take tropical fish flake, with occasional live or frozen food given as a treat. The balloon variety tend to be slower swimmers and less agile, so if you have housed them with other fish be sure that they are not out-competed for food. Feed at both ends of the aquarium to give them a chance against faster, nippier swimmers.
Compatibility
Red Eye Tetra are a peaceful community fish. House with other schooling varieties, such as other tetra, but avoid anything with fancy tails - they do have a tendency to fin-nip.
Sexing
Tetra are difficult to sex until shortly before breeding. Generally, the female will have a larger more rounded abdomen than the male. A female's belly fills with eggs when it is sexually mature. Males get very colorful when ready to mate. Select the brightly colored males for breeding.
Breeding
Moderate difficulty. Red Eye Tetra are egg layers, and adults may eat their own eggs before they have the oppportunity to fertilise. They will need dim lighting and plenty of hiding places around a species-only aquarium and close monitoring.
Life Span
Balloon Red Eye Tetra can live to anything from 3-5 years in perfect aquarium conditions.
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