The Rummy Nose Tetra (Hemigrammus bleheri), also known as the Firehead Tetra, is a very popular schooling community fish. Its red-orange nose and horizontally striped black and white tail make it a very distinctive aquarium fish.
The Rummy Nose Tetra typically occupies the top and middle level of the water column, although it can often be seen swimming and feeding in the middle and bottom levels as well. It is safe with other peaceful, small fish. Adult dwarf shrimp are generally safe as well, but adult Rummy Nose Tetras may eat small dwarf shrimp and their fry. Larger, peaceful invertebrates can also make good tank mates. The Rummy Nose Tetra must be kept in schools of 6 or more. Since it is tank-bred, the Rummy Nose Tetra is fairly adaptable, but its natural habitat contains soft, acidic water rich in tannins and leaf litter.
While not a picky eater, the Rummy Nose Tetra will thrive and remain very colourful on a varied diet of meaty foods. High-quality flake food, pellets, and frozen or freeze-dried tubifex and bloodworms will all be readily accepted.
What We Like About This Fish:
- Unique red-orange facial coloration and black and white striped tail
- Peaceful disposition with fish and peaceful invertebrates
- Very active and noticeable schooling fish in any aquarium
- Excellent for inhabiting the top of the aquarium
RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:
- Temperature: 64° - 82° F (18° - 27.7° C)
- pH: 5.5 - 7.0 (more acidic water is preferable)
- KH: 4 - 8 dKH
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
CARE GUIDELINES:
- Diet: Omnivorous. Will easily accept high quality dry and frozen foods.
- Social behaviour: Peaceful, schooling/shoaling.