The Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus) is a stunning freshwater fish celebrated for its iridescent, rainbow-like scales and elegant, flowing fins. Native to the Congo River Basin in Central Africa, it is a popular choice for larger community aquariums due to its peaceful temperament and active swimming style.
Core Characteristics
Appearance: They feature a shimmering body with shades of blue, gold, and violet. Males are significantly more colorful and possess long, feathery fin extensions, while females are smaller and more subtly colored.
Size: Adults typically reach 3 to 3.5 inches (7.6 to 8.5 cm).
Behavior: They are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6 to 8 individuals to prevent them from becoming timid or stressed.
Aquarium Care Requirements
To keep Congo Tetras healthy and vibrant, aim for an environment that mimics their natural habitat:
Tank Size: A minimum of 30 to 40 gallons (120–150 liters) is required due to their size and active nature.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 73°F – 82°F (23°C – 28°C).
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 – 7.5).
Hardness: They prefer soft to medium-hard water.
Setup: Use dense planting along the back and sides but leave plenty of open swimming space in the center. Dim lighting and floating plants help bring out their best iridescent colors.
Diet: They are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet of high-quality flakes, pellets, and frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms.
Compatibility
Good Tank Mates: Other peaceful community fish like Corydoras catfish, rasboras, rainbowfish, and dwarf cichlids.
Avoid: Very tiny fish or shrimp (which may be eaten) and aggressive fin-nippers that could damage the males' delicate trailing fins.
