Blue black banded tetra - Hyphessobrycon melanostichos

Originally, Blue Blackbanded Tetras, scientifically described as Hyphessobrycon melanostichos only in 2006, originate from the Tio Tapajo- Rio Doze de Outubro in Brazil. Hyphessobrycon is derived from the ancient Greek and means something like "small Brycon". Melanostichos means "with black band". With their lively nature and fascinating mating behavior, they are great aquarium co-inhabitants that always provide a good mood. In addition, they are very easy to care for, which is why they are so interesting for beginners or those returning to the aquarium and can be easily socialized.

The Blue Blackbanded Tetras have a slight high back with flattened sides as well as a rather gray base color. A distinct black band runs along the lateral line. The upper back has blue-green shiny scales, which iridesce differently and multifaceted depending on the incidence of light. The animals also have the typical salmon adipose fin behind the dorsal fin, as well as a pronounced and extended anal fin. At courtship time, especially the males color more intensely and also develop red fins, but this behavior can also be seen in smaller fights. They grow to a size of about 3.5-4 cm and are about 4-6 years old. Breeding in the aquarium is possible according to literature, they are free spawners.

Like most tetras, the Blue Blackbanded Tetra should be kept in aquariums with an edge length of 80 cm or more. Since they derive their strength from group size, keeping in groups of 8-10 animals or more is recommended. The aquarium may be calmly more strongly verkrautet in the background and at the sides, here the animals retreat to recover. However, since they are also quite swim-joyful, should be paid attention with the tank design to sufficient free swimming space. With a dark substrate and an infrastructure of roots but also rocks, the Blackbanded Tetra can be offered visual protection, but also territorial marking points. The aquarium water should have a total hardness of up to 25 °dGH, and a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. At temperatures between 23-28 °C the animals feel very comfortable.

Blue Blackbanded Tetras can also be socialized without problems with other peaceful South American Tetras or catfish. This quite peaceful fellow can be kept together with dwarf shrimp, although it may have young shrimp to eat. Optimal are well reproducing species like Neocaridina davidi, Neocaridina palmata or the Sulawesi shr imp.

As a typical omnivore and predatory fish, the Blue Blackbanded Tetra needs not only the usual fish food for omnivorous aquarium fish, but also animal food such as frozen food, freeze-dried FD food or fine live food.

Our food recommendation: The NatureHolic Main Feed is a professional staple feed for all aquarium fish. We supply Hauptfeed in the form of soft granules, which, thanks to its grain size of half a millimeter, can be easily ingested by small to medium-sized fish. The soft consistency resembles the texture of insect larvae in nature and protects the fish mouth from micro-injuries.

Our plant recommendation: Use for planting NatureHolic InVitros. These are free of snails, planarians and other unwanted co-inhabitants. Also free from algae spores, bacteria and fungi.

Expert Tip: We recommend for fish keeping the NatureHolic 3 Phase Liquid. The care set offers the best all-round protection for your animals. It ensures optimal conditions for successful breeding and keeping.