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Rummy Nose Tetra (Hemigrammus Bleheri)

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Scientific Name: Hemigrammus Bleheri
Common Names: Rummy Nose Tetra, Firehead Tetra, Red Nose Tetra
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Intermediate
Life Span: 3 to 5 years

Rummy Nose Tetra (Hemigrammus Bleheri) in focus

Species Overview and Background:

  • The Rummy Nose Tetra (Hemigrammus Bleheri) was first discovered in the Amazon River basin in South America. It is native to Brazil, specifically the Rio Negro and Rio Madeira rivers. These tetras can also be found in parts of Peru and Colombia. Their natural habitat consists of blackwater rivers and tributaries with slow-moving or still waters. In the wild, they live in large groups, often swimming among dense vegetation and submerged tree roots. Rummy Nose Tetras are known for their distinctive red nose and silver body.
  • Rummy Nose Tetras are peaceful and shoaling fish. They prefer to live in large groups, ideally consisting of at least six individuals. Being shoaling fish, they feel more secure and exhibit natural behaviour when kept in a group. These tetras are not aggressive or territorial and generally get along well with other peaceful fish species.
  • The Rummy Nose Tetra was introduced to the aquarium hobby in the 1980s. It gained popularity due to its vibrant coloration and peaceful nature. These tetras have become famous among aquarium enthusiasts for their striking appearance and their tendency to form tight-knit schools, adding beauty and movement to the aquarium.
  • Rummy Nose Tetras are relatively common in the aquarium hobby and can be found in many fish stores. Their popularity and availability make them a desirable choice for hobbyists looking to add vibrant schooling fish to their tanks.
  • The ideal minimum group size for Rummy Nose Tetras is six individuals. A tank size of at least 60 litres (15 gallons) is recommended to provide adequate swimming space and to accommodate a proper school.

General Water Parameters:

  • pH Range: 6.0 to 7.5
  • Temperature Range: 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F)
  • GH Range: 4 to 12 dGH
  • KH Range: 1 to 10 dKH
  • TDS Range: 50 to 150 ppm

Colour & Appearance:

  • Rummy Nose Tetras are small, slender fish with an elongated body shape. They can grow up to 5 centimetres (2 inches) in length. The upper part of their body is silver with a slight greenish tint, while the lower part is pale silver. The most distinctive feature of the Rummy Nose Tetra is its vibrant red nose, which extends to the area between the eyes. This red coloration becomes more intense and vibrant when the fish is in good health and comfortable in its environment.
  • In terms of colour variations, Rummy Nose Tetras generally have consistent coloration. However, the intensity of the red nose can vary slightly among individuals. It is important to note that proper care and water conditions are crucial to maintaining their vibrant coloration.

Care and Requirements:

  • Rummy Nose Tetras are considered intermediate in terms of care level. While they are not overly demanding, they require stable water parameters and a well-maintained aquarium.
  • These tetras are omnivorous and will readily accept a variety of foods. In their natural habitat, they primarily feed on small invertebrates, insects, and plant matter. In captivity, they can be fed a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Providing a varied diet is essential to ensure their nutritional needs are met.
  • Rummy Nose Tetras are generally hardy fish, but they thrive in well-maintained aquariums with stable water parameters. It is important to keep the water clean and free from ammonia, nitrites, and high levels of nitrates. Regular water changes, filtration, and proper maintenance of the aquarium are necessary to provide optimal conditions for their well-being.
  • These tetras are active during the day and will spend most of their time swimming in the middle and upper levels of the tank. They appreciate the presence of hiding places such as plants, rocks, or driftwood, where they can retreat if they feel threatened or stressed. Dense vegetation, such as floating plants or tall stem plants, can mimic their natural habitat and provide them with a sense of security.
  • Rummy Nose Tetras do not require a high-water flow in their tank. A gentle to moderate water flow is sufficient, as long as it does not cause excessive stress or turbulence for the fish. Providing moderate filtration and maintaining good water quality is more important than creating a strong water flow.
  • These tetras also benefit from the presence of microorganisms and biofilm in the tank. They will actively feed on these natural food sources, which contribute to their overall health and well-being. However, it is still important to provide a balanced and varied diet to ensure all their nutritional requirements are met.

Diet:

  • Rummy Nose Tetras are omnivorous and have a versatile diet. In captivity, they can be fed high-quality flake or pellet food designed for tropical fish. It is important to choose a food specifically formulated for small tropical fish to ensure proper nutrition. Additionally, supplementing their diet with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, or small insects will provide them with essential proteins and variety.
  • These tetras are known to display feeding behaviour near the water's surface, where they pick at microorganisms, insects, and floating plant matter. They have small mouths, so it is important to provide appropriately sized food particles that they can easily consume. Feeding them small portions multiple times a day is recommended to mimic their natural feeding patterns and prevent overeating.

Ideal Tank Setup:

  • Rummy Nose Tetras prefer a well-planted aquarium with plenty of swimming space. Providing dense vegetation, such as Java moss, Amazon sword plants, or Vallisneria, will not only create a natural and visually appealing environment but also provide hiding places and security for the fish.
  • In terms of substrate, a fine gravel or sand substrate is suitable for Rummy Nose Tetras. They do not have specific substrate requirements, but using dark-coloured substrates can enhance their colours and make them stand out.
  • Adding driftwood or bogwood to the aquarium can mimic their natural habitat and provide additional hiding places. These natural materials also release tannins into the water, creating a slightly acidic and tea-coloured environment that the tetras find more comfortable.
  • While Rummy Nose Tetras do not require high water flow, having a gentle to moderate filtration system is important to maintain good water quality. Providing a sponge or pre-filter can help protect the fish from strong currents and prevent them from being sucked into the filter.
  • It is recommended to keep the tank well-lit, but providing some shaded areas with floating plants or taller decorations can help create a more natural and comfortable environment for the tetras.

Compatible Tankmates:

Rummy Nose Tetras are peaceful community fish that can be kept with a variety of other peaceful species. Ideal tankmates include other small to medium-sized tetras, such as Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, and Harlequin Rasboras. Other compatible tankmates include small catfish species like Corydoras, peaceful dwarf cichlids like Apistogramma species, and peaceful bottom-dwelling fish like Otocinclus catfish.

  • It is important to avoid keeping Rummy Nose Tetras with aggressive or fin-nipping fish, as their delicate fins can be easily damaged. Avoid species known for aggression, such as some cichlid species, barbs, or larger predatory fish.
  • When selecting tankmates, consider their size and activity level. Rummy Nose Tetras may feel stressed or intimidated by larger or more boisterous fish. It is also advisable to keep them in groups of at least six individuals to promote shoaling behaviour and reduce stress.

Sexing:

  • Sexing Rummy Nose Tetras can be challenging, especially outside of breeding conditions. However, there are slight differences between males and females that can be observed. Males typically have a more vibrant and intense red coloration on their nose and forehead compared to females. Females may have a slightly rounder and fuller body shape, especially when they are carrying eggs. During breeding, males may exhibit more intense coloration and develop small hooks on their anal fin.

Breeding:

  • Breeding Rummy Nose Tetras in a hobbyist's aquarium is possible, although it may require specific conditions and some effort. Creating the ideal breeding setup involves providing soft and slightly acidic water with a pH range around 6.0 to 6.5 and a temperature around 26°C to 28°C (79°F to 82°F).
  • Spawning typically occurs in the morning hours. The female will scatter her eggs among fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop. After spawning, it is crucial to remove the adults from the breeding tank to prevent them from consuming the eggs.
  • The eggs will hatch within 24 to 36 hours, and the fry will become free-swimming a few days later. At this stage, they can be fed infusoria, newly hatched brine shrimp, or commercially available liquid fry food.
  • Providing ample hiding places, such as clumps of Java moss or fine-leaved plants, will help protect the fry and provide them with suitable cover. Maintaining excellent water quality and providing frequent, small feedings are crucial for the successful rearing of the fry.

Additional Considerations:

  • When introducing Rummy Nose Tetras to a new aquarium, it is important to acclimate them slowly to avoid stress and potential health issues. Floating the bag containing the fish in the tank for 15-20 minutes to equalize the temperature is a common acclimation method. Gradually adding small amounts of the tank water to the bag over a period of time helps the fish adjust to the new water parameters.
  • It is recommended to avoid sudden changes in water parameters or temperature, as Rummy Nose Tetras are sensitive to fluctuations. Stability is key to maintaining their health and vibrant coloration.
  • Regular monitoring of water parameters, routine water changes, and providing a balanced diet will contribute to the overall well-being of Rummy Nose Tetras.
  • It is worth mentioning that Rummy Nose Tetras are susceptible to common fish diseases, such as Ich (white spot disease) and fungal infections. Maintaining good water quality, a stress-free environment, and quarantining new fish before introducing them to an established aquarium can help minimize the risk of disease outbreaks.

By following these care guidelines and providing a suitable environment, Rummy Nose Tetras can thrive and provide a beautiful and active addition to any community aquarium. In conclusion, Rummy Nose Tetras (Hemigrammus Bleheri) are peaceful and colourful fish that make a great addition to community aquariums. Their vibrant red noses and silver bodies add a striking visual appeal to any tank. With proper care and attention, these tetras can live for 3 to 5 years, providing enjoyment to aquarium enthusiasts.