Cochu’s Blue Tetra (Boehlkea fredcochui) – A Complete Care Guide for Aquarium Enthusiasts

Characteristics

The Cochu’s Blue Tetra is a small, active, and vibrantly colored tetra species known for its metallic blue sheen and lively nature. A favorite among aquarists, this species adds a striking contrast to planted and community aquariums.

• Scientific Name: Boehlkea fredcochui
• Common Name: Cochu’s Blue Tetra
• Origin: South America (Peru, Brazil, Colombia)
• Behavior: Active, semi-aggressive, and schooling
• Tank Preferences: Thrives in planted aquariums with open swimming space
• Water Parameters:
  • pH: 5.5 – 7.5
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
  • Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F)
• Care Difficulty: Moderate, due to their active and sometimes fin-nipping behavior.

Origin and Distribution

Cochu’s Blue Tetra is native to slow-moving rivers and streams in the Amazon Basin, particularly in Brazil, Peru, and Colombia. In the wild, they inhabit shallow waters with dense vegetation, where they school together for protection.

Colors and Markings

• Metallic blue body, which shimmers under aquarium lighting.
• Transparent fins, with a hint of black on the caudal (tail) fin.
• Sleek, torpedo-shaped body, perfect for fast swimming.
• Under the right lighting, their iridescent blue sheen intensifies, making them stand out in aquariums.

Tankmates and Compatibility

While Cochu’s Blue Tetras are not as peaceful as other tetras, they can be housed in a community tank with the right tankmates. Suitable companions include:

• Fast-swimming tetras (Rummy Nose Tetras, Black Skirt Tetras, Lemon Tetras)
• Danios (Zebra Danios, Celestial Pearl Danios)
• Corydoras Catfish
• Plecos and Otocinclus

Avoid keeping them with:

• Slow-moving or long-finned fish (like Betta fish, Angelfish, or Guppies), as Cochu’s Blue Tetras may nip at their fins.
• Very small shrimp, as they may see them as food.

Care Requirements

To maintain healthy and vibrant Cochu’s Blue Tetras:

• Tank size: 20 gallons minimum, as they are active swimmers.
• Schooling fish: Keep them in groups of at least 6-10 to reduce aggression.
• Live plants (Amazon Sword, Java Fern, Hornwort) to mimic their natural habitat.
• Driftwood and leaf litter can help create a blackwater environment, enhancing their colors.
• Moderate to strong water flow, as they are used to river-like conditions.
• Regular water changes (25-30% per week) to maintain stable water parameters.

Diet and Feeding

Cochu’s Blue Tetras are omnivores, requiring a varied diet to maintain their bright blue coloration. Ideal food options include:

• High-quality micro-pellets and flakes (with color-enhancing formulas).
• Live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms).
• Freeze-dried blackworms and tubifex as occasional treats.
• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach) to supplement their diet.

Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily, ensuring all food is consumed within a few minutes.

Gender Differences

• Males: Slimmer, more vibrant blue coloration.
• Females: Slightly rounder, especially when carrying eggs.

Breeding Cochu’s Blue Tetra

Breeding Cochu’s Blue Tetras is challenging, but possible under the right conditions:

• Separate breeding tank (10-15 gallons) with soft, acidic water (pH 5.5 – 6.5).
• Dim lighting and fine-leaved plants (Java Moss, spawning mops) for egg-laying.
• Conditioned breeding pair fed a diet rich in live and frozen foods.
• Egg scatterers: Parents do not care for eggs, so remove adults after spawning.
• Egg incubation: Eggs hatch in 24-36 hours, and fry become free-swimming in 3-5 days.
• Fry diet: Infusoria, liquid fry food, and newly hatched brine shrimp.

Common Health Issues

Cochu’s Blue Tetras are hardy, but they can suffer from:

• Ich (White Spot Disease) – Treated with aquarium salt and raised temperature (28°C/82°F).
• Fin Rot and Bacterial Infections – Caused by poor water quality; requires antibiotics.
• Stress-related diseases – Prevented by keeping them in proper school sizes.

To maintain health, ensure clean water, stable temperatures, and a proper diet.

Additional Resources

For more tetra care and breeding tips, check out:

• The Tetra Handbook by David Alderton
• Aquarium forums like Tropical Fish Keeping and Fishlore
• YouTube channels such as Aquarium Co-Op and MD Fish Tanks

Final Thoughts

The Cochu’s Blue Tetra is a stunning, energetic, and rewarding species for experienced aquarists. With their vibrant blue shimmer, schooling behavior, and active personality, they bring a dynamic presence to any freshwater aquarium. With proper care, they can live up to 3-5 years.

Would you like additional guidance on tank setup or breeding tips? 🐠💙✨