Glass Bloodfin Tetra
Pristella maxillaris
Description
The Glass Bloodfin Tetra is a small and attractive species known for its unique appearance and peaceful nature. This tetra features a mostly translucent, almost clear body that gives it a “glass-like” look. The most distinctive feature of this fish is the bright red coloration at the tips of its fins, especially the tail fin, which is often described as “blood red,” giving it the “Bloodfin” part of its name. The rest of its body remains pale, with a slight silvery sheen. The Glass Bloodfin Tetra is a peaceful, social fish that does well in groups, swimming actively in schools. They are active swimmers and spend most of their time in the middle to upper levels of the aquarium.
Habitat Origin
Native to the freshwater rivers and streams in Central America, particularly in regions of Panama and Costa Rica. These fish are found in clear, slow-moving waters with plenty of vegetation and moderate flow. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions and thrive in environments with good oxygenation.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: At least 6 individuals, as they are schooling fish and feel more secure in groups.
Favorite Food
Glass Bloodfin Tetras are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They will also nibble on algae and small plant matter, making them suitable for planted tanks. A varied diet will ensure they remain healthy and vibrant.
Behavior:
The Glass Bloodfin Tetra is peaceful and social, thriving in schools of at least 6 individuals. They are active swimmers, often found darting through the middle and upper regions of the tank. While they are generally calm, they can be a bit shy if kept alone or in small groups, so they are best kept in schools to exhibit their natural behavior. Their gentle and non-aggressive nature makes them compatible with other small, peaceful fish. However, they should not be kept with large, aggressive species that may intimidate them.
Special Care:
Glass Bloodfin Tetras do best in a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots such as rocks, driftwood, and plants. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions, and stable water parameters are crucial for their health. Regular water changes and good filtration are necessary to maintain clean and oxygenated water. Since these fish are small and somewhat shy, a peaceful tank with other non-aggressive species will help reduce stress.
Compatibility with Other Fish:
Yes, Glass Bloodfin Tetras are ideal for peaceful community tanks with other small, non-aggressive species. They can be housed with other tetras, rasboras, small catfish, and peaceful shrimp. They are best kept with species that swim in different parts of the tank or are similarly sized. Avoid keeping them with large or aggressive fish that may bully or eat them.
Breeding Setup
Using a separate breeding tank is highly recommended for Glass Bloodfin Tetras. This allows for precise control of water parameters and prevents the eggs from being eaten by adult fish or other tank mates. A 10-gallon tank (38 liters) is sufficient for a breeding pair or small group, while 20 gallons (75 liters) is better for larger groups. Maintain pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 24–28°C (75–82°F), and hardness 2–10 dGH. A gentle sponge or internal filter ensures clean water without creating disruptive flow. Use fine gravel or sand substrate with live plants like Java moss or Hornwort, and consider floating plants to provide cover and reduce lighting intensity.
Conditioning for Breeding
Condition your tetras with a nutritious, protein-rich diet that includes high-quality flakes or micro pellets, as well as live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Supplement with vegetable-based foods like blanched spinach or peas. To enhance breeding readiness, perform weekly water changes of 20–30%, and simulate breeding season by doing a 50% water change and raising the temperature slightly to around 28°C (82°F).
Spawning Process
Spawning typically occurs in the early morning, especially after a water change and slight temperature increase. Males will display their red tail coloration and swim around females to initiate spawning. Eggs are scattered around the tank and usually adhere to plant leaves or tank surfaces. A female can lay 30–100 sticky eggs per session. It’s important to remove the parents after spawning, as they might eat the eggs or fry.
Fry Care
Eggs hatch within 24–36 hours, depending on temperature. Newly hatched fry absorb yolk sacs for the first few days. Once free-swimming, offer infusoria or liquid fry food, followed by baby brine shrimp or microworms as they grow. Perform small water changes (10–20%) daily or every other day, maintain stable temperature (24–28°C), and avoid overfeeding to prevent water quality deterioration.
Key Considerations
Glass Bloodfin Tetras reach breeding maturity at 6–12 months. Males are smaller with brighter red tails, while females are larger and rounder when full of eggs. To ensure successful breeding, avoid stress factors like sudden parameter changes or aggressive tank mates. Good filtration, peaceful surroundings, and consistent maintenance are essential for fry survival and healthy spawning behavior.