Diamond Tetra
Moenkhausia pittieri
Description
The Diamond Tetra is a small, peaceful fish known for its shimmering, diamond-like appearance. Their bodies have a translucent, silver-gray color that reflects light, giving them a sparkling or “diamond” effect. They often exhibit a faint red or orange coloration near the fins, particularly during breeding periods, and males tend to show more vivid colors than females. Their body is elongated and slightly compressed, with large, dark eyes. Diamond Tetras are peaceful, active, and social fish, thriving in schools. They are often seen swimming in the middle to upper regions of the tank, where their natural shimmering behavior is most visible. These fish are calm, and their beauty makes them a popular choice for community aquariums.
Habitat Origin
Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of South America, particularly in Venezuela and Colombia. They are typically found in slightly acidic, soft waters with moderate to slow flow, surrounded by submerged vegetation, rocks, and organic material. In their natural habitat, they thrive in clear waters with plenty of hiding places and areas to forage.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: At least 6 individuals, as they are schooling fish and feel more secure in groups.
Favorite Food
Diamond Tetras are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. They can be fed high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They will also graze on small plant matter and biofilm in the tank. A varied diet ensures they maintain their health, vibrant coloration, and active behavior.
Behavior:
Diamond Tetras are peaceful and social fish, best kept in groups of at least 6 individuals. They are active swimmers, often found darting through the middle or upper regions of the tank. These fish are generally calm and non-aggressive, making them ideal for community aquariums. They are not fin-nippers and can coexist peacefully with other small, non-aggressive species. However, they may become shy if kept alone or in small groups. Diamond Tetras are great for aquariums with plenty of plants, as they enjoy having hiding spots and places to explore.
Special Care:
Diamond Tetras are relatively hardy, but they do best in stable environments with slightly acidic to neutral water. Regular water changes and good filtration are essential for maintaining water quality, as these fish are sensitive to poor water conditions. A fine gravel or sandy substrate is ideal, and the tank should be well-planted to provide the necessary hiding spots and grazing areas. Avoid exposing them to strong water currents, as they prefer moderate water flow that mimics their natural habitat.
Compatibility with Other Fish:
Yes, Diamond Tetras are compatible with other peaceful species such as tetras, rasboras, small catfish, and peaceful shrimp. They are ideal for community tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish. Their peaceful nature makes them suitable for a variety of setups, especially with other schooling fish. Avoid housing them with large or aggressive species that may stress or harm them. They thrive in peaceful environments with appropriate tankmates.
Breeding Setup
A separate breeding tank is highly recommended when breeding Diamond Tetras to control environmental factors and prevent egg or fry predation. A 40-liter (10-gallon) tank provides ample space for breeding and easy maintenance of water conditions. Keep the pH between 6.0 and 7.5, temperature at 24–28°C (75–82°F), and general hardness (GH) between 4–12 dGH. Use a gentle sponge filter to ensure clean, calm water. Include fine sand or gravel, live plants like Java moss or Anubias for egg-laying, and floating plants to create a shaded, natural environment. Moderate lighting is ideal to replicate their wild habitat.
Conditioning for Breeding
To prepare Diamond Tetras for breeding, provide a high-protein, varied diet. Feed them live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms, alongside quality flakes and frozen foods. This ensures strong reproductive health and vibrant coloration. Perform weekly 25% water changes to reduce stress and maintain clean water conditions that are essential for spawning.
Spawning Process
Diamond Tetras are egg scatterers, typically spawning early in the morning or evening. Males display bright colors and chase females during courtship. A female may lay 100–200 sticky eggs on plants, tank walls, or flat surfaces. Once spawning is complete, immediately remove the adult fish, as they may eat the eggs. Maintaining a calm, undisturbed environment afterward is critical for egg survival.
Fry Care
Eggs hatch within 24–36 hours, depending on the temperature. Initially, the fry will absorb their yolk sacs before becoming free-swimming. At that point, begin feeding them infusoria, liquid fry food, or microscopic live foods like rotifers. After a few days, gradually introduce baby brine shrimp and crushed flakes. Perform daily 10–15% water changes to maintain excellent water quality and keep temperature stable between 24–28°C for optimal development.
Important Notes
Diamond Tetras reach sexual maturity around 6 months of age. Males are generally smaller and more colorful, while females are larger and rounder, especially when gravid. To ensure a successful breeding outcome, maintain stable water conditions, avoid sudden environmental changes, and ensure the tank remains peaceful and free from aggressive species. Minimizing stress is key to promoting healthy spawning behavior and fry survival.