Freshwater fish face constant threats that have brought them to the brink of extinction. Among these species is the Diamond tetra (Moenkhausia pittieri), a fish native to Venezuela, whose population is declining due to human activities such as overfishing and the destruction of natural habitats. Although it is a very prolific fish and easy to breed in aquariums, its presence in Venezuelan rivers is in danger of disappearing.
Next, we will explore in depth the characteristics, care and habitat of the Diamond Tetra, a fish that fascinates both for its beauty and its behavior, ideal for community aquariums.
Characteristics of the Diamond Tetra
The Diamond Tetra belongs to the group of ornamental fish known as tetras. What distinguishes them from other species de peces are some anatomical peculiarities: they have an internal row of teeth, a suborbital bone under their eyes, a part of their body without scales and they lack a vertical keel. They are part of the Tetragonopterini group, of which there are several genera, the genus being Moenkhausia which includes the Diamond Tetra.
The Diamond Tetra reaches an average size of 6 cm as an adult. This species is known for its intense violet coloration with golden iridescence that stands out especially under optimal lighting conditions and in well-kept aquariums. Its scales have small spiny structures, which add an interesting detail to its general appearance. These physical characteristics, together with its dorsal and anal fins tinged with a beautiful violet tone in the wild, make it a unique specimen among tetras.
Natural habitat
The Diamond Tetra is native to the Lake Valencia Basin in VenezuelaThis lake is surrounded by mountains and has suffered a significant decline in its water quality due to human activity. The typical habitat of these fish includes slow-moving streams in savannahs and undergrowth areas, with dense vegetation and the presence of decomposing plant organic matter.
In the wild, the Diamond Tetra usually lives in shaded areas with soft, acidic water, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.8 and temperatures of 24-28 ºC. However, its habitat is seriously threatened due to urbanization and pollution, which endangers the survival of this species.
Conditions for the Aquarium
If you are thinking of adding Diamond Tetra to your aquarium, it is essential to replicate the conditions of their natural habitat. To do this, you must have an aquarium with the following characteristics:
- Minimum capacity: 100 liters for a group of at least 6-8 specimens.
- Water parameters: pH between 5.5 and 6.8, general hardness (GH) less than 5 and temperature between 24-28 ºC.
- Lighting: dim, to simulate the shaded areas in which they usually live.
- Decoration: Use dark substrates, floating plants such as Cabomba o Cerato-, logs and dry leaves to imitate the color of the water in their habitat.
- Filtration: Use peat systems to maintain an acidic pH and efficient filtration without strong currents.
Care and Feeding
The Diamond Tetra is an omnivorous fish, meaning it feeds on a wide variety of foods. In the wild, its diet includes worms, crustaceans, and insects. In the aquarium, you can provide them with a balanced diet that includes:
- Processed foods, such as high-quality flakes and pellets.
- live foods, such as brine shrimp, mosquito larvae and daphnia, which also serve to highlight the intensity of their coloration.
- Frozen foods, such as bloodworms.
It is recommended to offer them small amounts of food once or twice a day, making sure that they consume all the food in less than two minutes to avoid the accumulation of waste at the bottom of the aquarium.
Sexual Dimorphism and Reproduction
Male Diamond Tetras are usually larger and more slender than females, with more intense coloration and more developed dorsal fins. Females, on the other hand, have a duller color.
Breeding in aquariums is possible and can be achieved in dedicated tanks, with a capacity between 10 and 30 liters, soft and slightly acidic water, and fine-leafed plants such as Java moss to facilitate spawning. During mating, males exhibit more aggressive and territorial behavior. Eggs hatch in 24-36 hours and fry become free-swimming after 3-4 days, at which point they can be fed foods such as rotifers and brine shrimp nauplii.
The Diamond Tetra is a living gem that brings elegance and dynamism to any aquarium. Although its care is not particularly difficult, it is essential to create an appropriate environment that respects its natural needs to ensure its well-being and longevity. Its peaceful and sociable behavior, together with its great beauty, make it an excellent choice for aquarium hobbyists.
I do research for my grandson Angel de Jesus about this fish and he is very interested and worried about its extinction