Silvertip Tetra

The Silvertip Tetra (Hasemania nana) is a hardy and active freshwater fish that is popular in community aquariums. Here are the key aspects of caring for silvertip tetras in an aquarium:

1. Tank Setup:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 60 litres is recommended for a small group, but larger tanks are better for groups and to encourage natural behaviour.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 22–26°C
  • pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Hardness: 2–15 dGH
  • Silvertip tetras prefer soft, slightly acidic water, but they can tolerate a range of conditions as long as water quality is maintained.
• Filtration: Provide good filtration with gentle flow. They enjoy clean, well-oxygenated water.
• Substrate and Décor: A dark substrate mimics their natural environment and enhances their colours. Add plants, driftwood, and rocks to create hiding spots and a sense of security.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal, as they do well in subdued light with planted tanks.

2. Diet:

Silvertip tetras are omnivores, and they thrive on a varied diet.

• Food Options: They enjoy high-quality micro-pellets, and frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms.
• A balanced diet promotes their vibrant colour and active behaviour.

3. Behavior and Tank Mates:

• Schooling Fish: Silvertip tetras are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6, preferably 8–10, to reduce stress and promote natural behavior. In larger schools, their movements become more synchronized and they appear more confident.
• Active and Peaceful: They are generally peaceful but can be a bit fin-nippy if kept in too small a group. Providing plenty of space and other fish to disperse their attention reduces the risk of fin-nipping.
• Compatible Tank Mates: Ideal tank mates include other peaceful fish like neon tetras, harlequin rasboras, Corydoras catfish, and smaller peaceful species. Avoid slow-moving or long-finned fish like bettas or guppies.

4. Breeding:

• Breeding silvertip tetras is relatively easy in a separate breeding tank.
• Conditioning: Feed them high-quality live or frozen foods to condition them for breeding.
• Spawning Tank: Set up a small tank with soft, slightly acidic water, fine-leaved plants, and subdued lighting. Males will display brighter colors during courtship.
• Egg Scattering: Silvertip tetras are egg scatterers, so use a spawning mop or a fine mesh to catch eggs. The parents may eat the eggs if not separated after spawning.
• Fry Care: The eggs hatch in about 24–36 hours, and the fry become free-swimming after 3–4 days. Feed the fry with infusoria or liquid fry food initially, and then move on to baby brine shrimp.

5. Health and Maintenance:

• Water Quality: Regular water changes (about 25–30% weekly) are important for keeping them healthy and preventing stress.
• Signs of Stress: Watch for faded colours, lethargy, or signs of disease, which can indicate poor water conditions or stress from incompatible tank mates.

Silvertip tetras are energetic, easy to care for, and a great choice for hobbyists looking for lively, colourful fish to add to a peaceful community aquarium.