Assorted GMO Tetra

GMO Tetras require similar care to standard tetras. Here’s a detailed care guide to help you maintain a healthy aquarium for your tetras:

1. Aquarium Setup

• Tank Size: 60 litres tank is the minimum size for a small group of tetras, but 100 liters is preferable for a more comfortable environment.
• Water Temperature: 22°C–27°C. Tetras prefer slightly warmer water.
• pH Level: Maintain a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Tetras thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water.
• Water Hardness: 3 to 8 dGH (soft water is preferred).
• Filtration: Use a good filtration system with gentle water flow. Sponge filters or hang-on-back filters are great options.
• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel. Tetras are mid-level swimmers and don’t have specific substrate needs, but a soft substrate is better for the overall aquarium health.

2. Tank Mates

• Tetras are schooling fish, so they should be kept in groups of at least 6–8 individuals.
• Good tank mates include peaceful species like guppies, rasboras, corydoras, and other tetras.
• Avoid aggressive fish or fin-nippers like cichlids or large species that might eat the tetras.

3. Lighting

• Moderate lighting is sufficient. For genetically modified tetras (such as GloFish), they glow under blue or black light, so LED lights that can switch between modes are ideal.
• Ensure the light isn’t too bright, as tetras enjoy shaded areas, which can be created using live plants or decor.

4. Plants and Decor

• Live Plants: Tetras appreciate live plants like Java ferns, Anubias, Amazon sword, and floating plants for cover. They prefer tanks with dense vegetation to mimic their natural habitat.
• Hiding Spots: Add driftwood, rocks, or caves to provide shelter.
• Open Swimming Space: While plants and decor are important, leave ample space in the middle of the tank for tetras to swim freely.

5. Water Quality and Maintenance

• Perform regular water changes (20–30% weekly) to maintain water quality. Tetras are sensitive to water parameter fluctuations.
• Test water parameters frequently to ensure proper conditions (ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates should be monitored).
• Use a dechlorinator if using tap water during water changes.

6. Feeding

• Tetras are omnivorous and should be fed a balanced diet. A combination of:
  • High-quality flakes or micro-pellets specifically for tropical fish.
  • Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms (as occasional treats).
  • Vegetable matter: Spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables (like zucchini) for variety.
• Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily, ensuring no leftover food decays in the tank.

7. Behavior and Health

• Schooling Behavior: Tetras are active swimmers and do best in groups. A lack of schooling behaviour or lethargy can indicate stress or poor health.
• Disease Prevention: Watch for common fish diseases like ich or fin rot. Quarantine new fish and plants before adding them to your main tank to avoid introducing diseases.
• Signs of Good Health: Bright colouration, active swimming, and a good appetite are signs of healthy tetras.

8. Breeding

• Breeding tetras requires some effort. Set up a separate breeding tank with softer, slightly acidic water (pH around 6.0–6.5) and higher temperatures (around 78°F–80°F).
• Provide plenty of fine-leaved plants (like moss) for the eggs to be scattered.
• Once eggs are laid, remove the parents, as tetras may eat their eggs.
• Feed the fry with infusoria or powdered fry food until they are large enough to eat brine shrimp or micro-worms.

Final Tips:

• Keep an eye on water parameters, especially after adding new fish or plants.
• Avoid overcrowding the tank, as tetras need space to swim.
• GloFish tetras might require specific lighting setups to highlight their fluorescence, but care remains the same as for regular tetras.