Glowworm Tetra (Hemigrammus erythrozonus)

Fish enthusiasts and aquarists alike are enthralled with the small and colorful freshwater fish known as the Glowworm Tetra, or Hemigrammus erythrozonus in scientific parlance. Popular choice for community aquariums, this species is known for its vibrant coloration and lively nature. The Glowworm Tetra, which is native to South American rivers, especially those in Brazil and Guyana, infuses any tank with vibrant color and vitality.

These fish are distinguished by their unique appearance, which includes a vivid, iridescent body that shimmers in the light. Their most distinctive feature is the red stripe that extends horizontally from the base of their tail to their head, giving them a distinctive and alluring appearance. Because glowworm tetras are schooling fish, which means they prefer to swim in groups, their graceful group swimming adds to their beauty.

Glowworm Tetras are easy to maintain, making them a good choice for novice and expert aquarium keepers alike. To mimic their natural habitat, they prefer aquariums that are lushly planted and have gentle lighting. This article offers insightful information for anyone considering adding these fun fish to their aquarium by examining their care needs, compatible tank mates, and breeding habits.

Habitat and Environment

Essequibo River in Western Guyana, South America.

The longest river in Guyana, the Essequibo, traverses numerous biotopes. found mostly in wooded areas and in the river’s shallow, slowly flowing tributaries. Because of the abundance of organic matter that is decomposing, the water in this area is soft, dark brown, and highly acidic. It also contains a lot of tannins.

Every fish that is sold is produced in large quantities on commercial farms across the globe.

Description

The body is long and olive or silvery-peach in color, with a slight flattening at the sides. The top of the iris of the eye is blue, and the bottom is red.

One characteristic that sets it apart is the glowing red-gold stripe that runs the length of the body, from the eyes to the tail (best seen in direct sunlight). It feels light in the belly.

Three lobes make up the caudal fin. The dorsal fin, which has a vivid red stripe in front of it, is considerably shorter than the anal fin. The tips of the transparent fins, which are richer in males, are milky. A small adipose fin is present.

Size:

This tetra is about 40 mm long, which is a medium size.

Behavior and compatibility

Can live in harmony with practically any non-aggressive species. Small catfish, danios, rasboras, cockerels, and other tetras make good neighbors. Apistograms, other dwarf cichlids, shrimp, and some varieties of gourami can be housed with it. Big fish will view it as food.

A schooling species, buy as many as you can from ten or more, as the fish will be more active and less shy, more visible, and will behave more naturally when there are more of them.

The Hemigrammus erythrozonus, or glowworm tetra, is a small, colorful freshwater fish that is well-liked by aquarium enthusiasts. This serene species, which is well-known for its vivid iridescent blue and yellow coloring, does well in classroom environments and livens up community tanks. Glowworm Tetras are native to the Amazon River basin and are a great option for anyone wishing to create an exquisite and peaceful aquatic environment because they like well-planted areas with gentle water flow. They are a fun addition to any aquarium setup because of their resilient nature and captivating behavior.

Aquarium

A 70-liter aquarium, with a minimum size of 60 cm, can comfortably house a small gathering.

Any species of plant can be used, and they are planted densely. Give yourself some space to swim. To create areas of shade, floating plants are placed on the surface. The fish appear pale against a light background; the soil should be dark.

You can make the aquarium look tropical by adding driftwood and some dried oak or beech leaves. Peat extract is the final ingredient needed to create the dark, tropical waters that these fish are accustomed to.

Water parameters:

In the range of 23 to 28 °C pH range: 5.5 to 7.5 Hardness: 5 to 15 degrees dGH

Weekly 25% water changes and adequate filtration and aeration are necessary. Keep an eye on the water’s nitrate and oxygen levels.

Nutrition

In the wild, they eat invertebrates, phyto- and zooplankton, and insect larvae that sink or float in water.

Omnivorous fish can thrive in aquariums on a diet of dry food, but like most fish, they prefer a varied diet, which in this case includes frozen and live food.

Sexual Dimorphism

In comparison to females, who have a more rounded abdomen, males are more graceful and have more intense color. Women’s bodies are higher and larger.

They can reproduce between six and ten months of age.

Breeding

Reproduction in a spawning tank with a volume of roughly 10 liters and a 15 cm water level: place a separator net, a few long-stemmed plant bushes to provide shade, and a small-leaved bush (brook moss or Java moss) to act as a substrate.

The spawning aquarium’s water parameters are 25–28 °C, dH 5–6, and pH 6-7. It should be peaty in the water. It is preferable to make the spawning tank darker.

The fish are fed live food, preferably crustaceans, and kept apart for a few weeks prior to spawning. Making sure the female doesn’t overeat is crucial because if she does, she will get a cyst and the fish won’t be able to spawn caviar.

Two males and a female are needed for reproduction, and they are released into the aquarium at night. Typically, they start to spawn early in the day. 150–300 eggs are laid by the female. Following the removal of the adult fish, the water level falls to 5–10 cm. Remove any whitish eggs that appear.

The eggs take around two days to incubate. They can eat ciliates or rotifers from the fourth to the seventh day, but as they get bigger, they move to Artemia nauplii. While food should always be available, it should only be in small amounts. The aquarium’s water needs to be kept clean at all times, and minor adjustments must be made frequently.

On the twelfth day, silvery-colored signs start to emerge. The fry, which are around 1 cm in size, start to exhibit a distinctive reddish-orange line at three weeks of age. They will be about 2 cm in two months.

The fry will grow much faster if you switch them to a diet that includes chopped tubifex as soon as they start to show red stripes.

It will live for about five years if you can get the right conditions in the aquarium.

Common Name Glowworm Tetra
Scientific Name Hemigrammus erythrozonus
Size Up to 1.5 inches (4 cm)
Habitat Freshwater rivers and streams in South America
Diet Omnivorous; enjoys flakes, pellets, and small live foods
Temperament Peaceful and social
Tank Conditions Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C); pH: 6.0-7.5
Behavior Schooling fish; best kept in groups of 6 or more

A fascinating addition to any freshwater aquarium is the glowworm tetra. A favorite among fish enthusiasts, it has a striking appearance that is typified by the bright iridescent glow emanating from its body. This peaceful fish makes a colorful show as it darts around the tank; it thrives in schools. They can bring happiness for years if given the right care, which includes a balanced diet and a well-kept environment.

Recreating a suitable habitat in your aquarium is made easier when you are aware of the Glowworm Tetra’s natural habitat. Like their native Amazon basin, they like soft, acidic water and lots of hiding places. In addition to offering protection, planting lush vegetation improves the tank’s aesthetic appeal.

All things considered, the Glowworm Tetra is a great option for both beginning and seasoned aquarium keepers. They are a delightful addition to any community tank because of their brilliant colors, amiable nature, and ease of care. You can enjoy their beauty and activity in your aquarium for a very long time if you make sure they have the proper conditions.

Video on the topic

Glowworm tetra – erythrozonus (Hemigrammus erythrozonus)

Tetra Erythrozonus. Hemigrammus erythrozonus.

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Anton Popov

A professional aquarist with over 15 years of experience. Main specialization - marine aquariums and creating optimal conditions for keeping rare species of fish and corals. I am fond of aquascaping, actively participate in international competitions. I love to share knowledge and experience to help others create the beauty of the underwater world at home.

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