Description
The African Longfin Tetra, also known as the Long-fin Tetra, is a larger species of the Tetra family that is a peaceful & hardy shoaling species that enjoys a planted aquarium in groups of 6 or more. It is a very active tetra best suited to community aquariums with other large tetra species or similarly sized peaceful community fish. Commonly found in black waters, it prefers the dimly lit aquarium.
Native to North West Africa from Gambia to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Gabon. It is sometimes found in lightly brackish waters.
Features of African Longfin Tetra's:
- Adult males develop a long dorsal fin & are bigger than females
- Silver body with a gold to green shine on the dorsal side
- Yellow to orange bands on the caudal peduncle
- Energetic and active swimmers
- Grows up to 12.5cm
The Best Aquarium Size for African Longfin Tetra's:
The minimum tank size for a small group of African Longfin Tetra is 120L. The African Longfin Tetra will occupy the top to middle water column in the aquarium. They are active swimmers so if keeper a group larger than 6, opt for a larger aquarium.
After an Aquarium for your fish? Browse our Aquarium Tank Selection here.
Tank Mate Compatibility:
The African Longfin Tetra is a shoaling fish and should be kept in schools of 6 or more. This species does well with other similarly sized and peaceful community fish.
Great tank mates for African Longfin Tetra include:
Coburg Aquarium, specialize in a large range of species of live fish.
Feeding :
African Longfin Tetra are omnivores that require a high protein diet. It should be a varied diet for optimal health. They will accept flakes and pellets, and their diet should be supplemented with spirulina, blackworms, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Check out our extensive range of aquarium fish foods.
African Longfin Tetra Fish Tank Setup:
Aquarium Filtration
Naturally found in slow moving streams, mimic the African Longfin Tetra natural environment by using a good aquarium filter that won’t create strong water movements. They are a hardy & active species but enjoy stable and clean waters.
Browse aquarium filters here.
Aquatic Plants for African Longfin Tetra's
The African Longfin Tetra is naturally found black waters heavily vegetated with plenty of driftwood. It provides shade & spaces to hide to ensure happy fish. The following live aquatic plants will do better in low light aquariums.
Interested in live plants for your aquariums? Browse live plants here.
Tank Decorations for African Longfin Tetra's
African Longfin Tetra enjoy black water aquariums and soft acidic water. The colour of fish are enhanced when conditions are ideal and fish are less stressed. Add driftwood and natural decorations that release tannins to mimic their natural environment.
Check out our Aquarium Ornaments.
Substrate for African Longfin Tetra's
Dark coloured substrates enhance the colour of the fish and help lower light levels, reducing stress. They prefer sandy substrates.
A variety of Substrates are available at Coburg Aquarium.
