The Rummy Nose Tetra is a popular freshwater schooling fish from the Amazon Basin, best known for its striking red face and black-and-white striped tail. Often called the "canary in the coal mine" for aquariums, its red nose fades significantly when water quality drops or the fish is stressed, providing a visual health indicator for the tank.
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (approx. 75 liters).
Temperature: 75°F to 84°F (24°C to 29°C).
pH Level: 5.5 to 7.0 (prefers soft, acidic water).
School Size: At least 6–10 individuals; they are famous for their exceptionally tight schooling behavior.
Key Characteristics & Behavior
Physical Appearance: They have a torpedo-shaped silver body with a deep red head and a "checkerboard" pattern of black and white stripes on the caudal fin.
Sensitivity: This species is sensitive to ammonia, nitrites, and rapid changes in water parameters. They require a fully cycled, mature aquarium to thrive.
Tight Schooling: Unlike many tetras that only shoal when threatened, Rummy Noses often maintain a tight group even when relaxed, making them a centerpiece for planted tanks.
Lifespan: Typically live 5 to 6 years, though exceptional care can lead to a lifespan of up to 8 years.
Diet and Compatibility
Omnivorous Diet: They accept high-quality tropical fish flakes and micro pellets. To maintain their vibrant red color, supplement with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
