Alestes Tetra

The Alestes Tetra is a larger, more robust tetra from Central-West Africa. This actively schooling tetra is bright yellow to neon gold in color with a horizontal black bar running through the base of the tail and fin. As with many other species that demonstrate sexual dichromatism, the male Alestes Tetra tends to sport flashier coloration with varying shade of blues and greens, giving him an overall “cooler” appearance. The Alestes Tetra will be sure to add plenty of movement and color when introduced.

The Alestes Tetra will do well in larger aquariums of at least 55 gallons in size that are well planted but with plenty of room to swim. The Alestes Tetra is somewhat skittish in nature and prefers to be kept in schools of 5 or more in an aquarium that is moderately lit. Due to its larger size and busy schooling nature, its robust activity may intimidate smaller tetras and community type fish. The Alestes Tetra fares well in a biotope set up with milder African Cichlids and Synodontis Catfish. It can also be housed with South American cichlids like Severums, Uarus and Jurapari types. High water quality is essential for the long-term health of this fish.

In the wild, Alestes Tetras are egg layers and will scatter their eggs among fine leafed plants, though there are few reports of successful breeding efforts in the home aquarium.

The Alestes Tetra will accept many small foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia, frozen/thawed bloodworms and brine shrimp, micro pellet food, and a high quality flake food.

Approximate Purchase Size: 1/2" to 1-1/4"