Red-eyed Moenkhausia
Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae
Profile
The red-eyed tetra is a schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 8–10 individuals, preferably more.
Family: characins (Characidae)
Home: South America – Paraguay, Brazil, Argentina (Paraguay River, Guaporé, Río Paraná)
Synonyms: Red-eye Tetra, Red-eye tetra, Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae (correct name)
First introduction: Available in the aquarium hobby since the 1930s/40s.
Size: 5–7 cm
Sexual differences: Females are fuller and slightly larger. Males are slimmer. Differences are rather subtle
Diet: Omnivorous Flake and granular food, Frozen food: Artemia, mosquito larvae, Cyclops Live food promotes activity and colours Vegetable ingredients welcome
Temperature: 22–28 °C
Tank size: From 120 litres – very active swimmers!
Water values: pH: 6.0–7.5/GH: 3–15 °dGH
Red-eyed Moenkhausia
Area of origin
Common in rivers, floodplains and slow-flowing areas of South America. Prefers clear, slightly acidic to neutral waters with plants and root areas.
Species
The genus Moenkhausia comprises over 60 species, many of which look very similar. The species frequently offered in the pet trade include
- Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae (red-eye tetra)
- Moenkhausia pittieri (diamond tetra)
- Moenkhausia costae
Social behaviour
Very peaceful Ideal for community tanks. Lively swimming behaviour, lots of movement. Forms loose shoals. Can occasionally nibble curiously at very long fins (e.g. gourami), but rarely aggressive.
Keeping conditions
Plenty of free swimming space. Densely planted edge zones. Subdued light possible due to floating plants. Stable water values. Good filtration, moderate current. Cover recommended - bouncy
Breeding
Possible, but not easy. Free spawners. Eggs are scattered and sink to the bottom. Parents eat spawn → separate breeding tank required. Dark substrate prevents light damage to eggs. Feed fry with infusoria after hatching, later with Artemia nauplii
Special features
Very robust species → well suited for beginners. The characteristic "red eye" makes it unmistakable. Very active tetra that loves to swim. Perfect for larger community aquariums. Goes well with many peaceful fish species.
Conclusion
Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae is a lively, attractive and very robust schooling fish that is ideal for community aquariums. With its striking red-eye colouring and its spirited but peaceful swimming behaviour, it brings life to the aquarium. It is easy to care for and therefore suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
If you have any questions or problems, our trained team at Zoo Roco is here to help. They can provide expert advice on all matters.
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