Glass Bloodfin Tetra

The Glass Bloodfin Tetra (Prionobrama filigera) is a small, peaceful freshwater fish that makes a great addition to community aquariums. It’s known for its transparent body and vibrant red colouration on its tail. Here’s a care guide to help you keep your Glass Bloodfin Tetras healthy and happy in an aquarium setting:

Tank Size:

• A minimum of 30 litres is recommended for a small group, but larger tanks (60 litres +) are better, especially for groups of 6 or more. They are schooling fish, so keeping them in groups is essential for their well-being.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22°C to 28°C
• pH: 6.0 to 8.5.
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2 to 15 dGH).
• Ammonia/Nitrite/Nitrate: Keep ammonia and nitrite levels at zero, and nitrate levels below 20 ppm for optimal health.

Filtration and Water Flow:

• Use a filter that provides good mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. Glass Bloodfins prefer moderate water flow, so ensure that the filter doesn’t create overly strong currents.

Diet:

• These tetras are omnivores. Offer them a varied diet that includes:
  • High-quality flake or micro-pellet food.
  • Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
  • Occasionally, offer vegetables like blanched spinach or zucchini.

Tank Mates:

• Glass Bloodfin Tetras are peaceful, so they do well in community tanks with other non-aggressive fish. Good tank mates include:
  • Other small tetras (e.g., Neon or Rummy Nose Tetras).
  • Rasboras.
  • Corydoras.
  • Small Gouramis.
  • Shrimp and peaceful snails.

Avoid large or aggressive fish that might harass or eat them, such as large cichlids or predatory species.

Aquascaping:

• Provide plenty of plants, including floating plants, which help them feel secure.
• Driftwood and rocks can add hiding spots, but ensure there’s open swimming space.
• A dark substrate can enhance their natural colors.

Behavior:

• Glass Bloodfin Tetras are active swimmers and enjoy being in the mid to upper levels of the tank. They feel safest in schools, so keep them in groups of at least 6 to reduce stress.

Breeding:

• These tetras are egg scatterers, and breeding can be accomplished in a well-planted tank with soft, slightly acidic water. Males will court females, and eggs are scattered among plants. Remove the parents after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.

Lighting:

• Moderate lighting is ideal. Too bright light may make them feel exposed and stressed, while low lighting can help them feel more comfortable.

Maintenance:

• Perform weekly water changes of about 25% to keep the water clean and free of toxins. Keep the tank cycled to avoid ammonia and nitrite spikes.

By maintaining stable water conditions, feeding a balanced diet, and ensuring they have companions, your Glass Bloodfin Tetras should thrive and display their best colours.