Kitty Tetra
Hyphessobrycon amandae
Description
The Kitty Tetra is a small, peaceful species of tetra known for its striking, translucent body and subtle yet attractive coloration. This species typically features a pale silver or light yellowish body with a hint of iridescence that shimmers under light. The defining characteristic of the Kitty Tetra is the dark stripe that runs along the side of its body, from the head to the tail, giving it an appearance reminiscent of other tetras in the Danio family. The fins are delicate, with some specimens showing a hint of color, particularly in the tail fin, which can exhibit a faint yellow or orange tint.
Habitat Origin
Native to Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Kitty Tetras are found in clear, slow-moving rivers and streams, where they inhabit areas with plenty of submerged plants, rocks, and organic debris. These environments are slightly acidic to neutral in pH, and the water is typically soft to medium hardness.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: At least 6 individuals, as they are schooling fish and feel more secure in groups.
Favorite Food
Kitty 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 such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They will also graze on algae and small plant matter, so incorporating vegetable-based foods like spirulina or blanched zucchini will benefit them. A varied diet will help maintain their vibrant health and coloration.
Behavior:
Kitty Tetras are peaceful, active, and social fish that thrive in schools. They are typically seen swimming in the middle to upper levels of the aquarium, displaying their natural schooling behavior. Their social nature makes them ideal for community tanks, as they do not exhibit aggressive behavior toward other species. They are very active and will often dart around the tank, making them an engaging species to observe. These fish are relatively calm and can coexist with other small, peaceful fish, but should be kept in schools for their well-being and to encourage their natural behavior.
Special Care:
Kitty Tetras thrive in stable water conditions, so regular water changes and good filtration are necessary to maintain water quality. They are hardy but do best in slightly acidic to neutral water with a temperature range of 22°C – 28°C. Providing a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, such as rocks and plants, is ideal, as they like to have some cover. Since they are schooling fish, it is essential to keep them in groups to help them feel secure and reduce stress.
Compatibility with Other Fish:
Yes, Kitty Tetras are compatible with a variety of peaceful fish species. They can be housed with other small, non-aggressive fish like rasboras, small catfish, tetras, and peaceful cichlids. They can also coexist with shrimp and snails. Larger or more aggressive fish should be avoided, as these may stress or harm the Kitty Tetras. A peaceful community tank with other small, non-aggressive species is ideal for these fish.
Breeding Tank Setup
A separate breeding tank is recommended for Kitty Tetras to ensure a controlled environment and minimize disturbances during the delicate spawning process. A 40–50 liter (10–13 gallon) tank is ideal, offering enough space for natural behaviors while keeping water quality manageable. The ideal water parameters include a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0–7.5, a temperature range of 24–28°C (75–82°F), and soft to medium hardness (4–12 dGH). A gentle sponge filter is the best choice, as it keeps the water clean without risking fry being sucked in, and also provides quiet operation to reduce stress. Use fine gravel or no substrate, along with fine-leaved plants like Java moss and floating plants such as duckweed to serve as egg-laying sites. A few rocks or caves can also offer egg adhesion surfaces. Lighting should be moderate—standard 12-hour light cycles are sufficient, but provide shaded areas to mimic their natural low-light habitat.
Conditioning for Breeding
To bring Kitty Tetras into peak breeding condition, feed them a varied and protein-rich diet. Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia are ideal, supplemented with quality flakes or pellets. Well-fed, healthy fish are more likely to spawn successfully. A partial water change (20–30%) a day or two before expected spawning can stimulate breeding behavior. Lowering the water temperature slightly to around 24°C (75°F) mimics the onset of the rainy season in their natural habitat, which often triggers spawning.
Spawning Process
Spawning usually takes place early in the morning following a water change. Females become noticeably rounder when full of eggs, while males become more vibrant in color and more active. During courtship, males chase and display around the females. Once spawning begins, the female scatters 100–200 adhesive eggs across plants, rocks, or tank surfaces. After spawning is complete, promptly remove the adults, as Kitty Tetras do not guard their eggs and may consume them. Removing the parents helps maximize fry survival.
Fry Care
Kitty Tetra eggs hatch within 24–48 hours depending on temperature, with warmer conditions (around 27°C or 80°F) accelerating development. For the first 2–3 days, the fry absorb their yolk sacs. Once they begin free-swimming, feed them infusoria or commercial liquid fry food. After a week, introduce newly hatched brine shrimp and finely crushed flake food to support growth. Maintain excellent water quality with small water changes (10–15% every 2–3 days) and gentle filtration. Avoid strong currents, which can exhaust or harm the tiny fry.
Important Breeding Notes
Kitty Tetras typically reach breeding maturity between 6 and 12 months of age, depending on their health and size. Males are distinguishable by their more vibrant red coloration and slimmer build, while females appear rounder when gravid. During breeding season, males will intensify in color and activity. To prevent stress and failed breeding attempts, avoid abrupt changes in temperature, pH, or hardness. Also, do not overcrowd the breeding tank and keep it free of aggressive species. Providing a calm, dimly lit, and well-prepared environment is key to successful Kitty Tetra spawning and fry rearing.