Congo tetra
Phenacogrammus interruptus
FishFreshwater
- Care level
- Moderate
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Recommended tank
- 150 L
- Maximum size
- 8.5 cm
- Temperature
- 23–27 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Group size
- ≥ 6
- Diet
- Omnivore
Care at a glance
The Congo tetra from the Congo basin is one of the few large, truly spectacular characins: adult males shine blue and orange and grow long, white-edged fin extensions. That splendour only develops after a year, so young shop fish still look fairly drab.
Despite its size it is a shy fish and needs a long tank with subdued light, floating plants and a dark substrate before it shows itself. Do not house it with fin nippers, as those trailing fins are an easy target; otherwise it is a peaceful, elegant schooling fish.
Related species
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Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.