Rummy Nose Tetra

Rummy-nose Tetra (Hemigrammus Rhodostomus)

The Rummy-nose Tetra, also known as Red-nosed Tetra, True Rummy-nose Tetra, is an attractive and popular freshwater fish, beloved for its vibrant coloration and peaceful demeanor. They exhibit a distinct red nose and head and a black lateral stripe extending from the caudal peduncle to the tail fin. The tail fin features striking black and white horizontal stripes.

They are known for their synchronized schooling behavior and are compatible with other peaceful tankmates. Rummy-nose Tetras' relatively easy care requirements make them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced aquarists.

Rummy-nose Tetras grow up to 2 inches in length. It is highly recommended to purchase a group of at least 6 Rummy-nose Tetras, with a preference for 10 or more. These fish are naturally schooling species and thrive in the presence of their own kind. Keeping them in sufficient numbers enhances their well-being and reduces any potential fin-nipping behavior, as they tend to focus on interacting with each other. The visual impact of a larger school is also quite stunning.

Rummy-nose Tetras are peaceful fish that may struggle to compete with overly active or significantly larger tankmates. Ideally, they should be housed with other South American species such as Hemigrammus or Hyphessobrycon tetras, pencil fish, Apistogramma and other small cichlids, Corydoras, and Loricariids. In a more diverse community tank, they can coexist with smaller rasboras, barbs, Anabantoids, and West African dwarf cichlids like Pelvicachromis species.

Rummy-nose Tetras are omnivorous and enjoy a varied diet. They readily accept high-quality flake food and benefit from live and frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms, which contribute to their overall health and vibrant coloration.

The aquarium should have plenty of plants, hiding spots made with driftwood or twisted roots, and open swimming areas. Slightly diffused or dimmed lighting is preferable, with a sandy or fine dark substrate and floating plants to provide the shady conditions preferred by Rummy-nose Tetras. Include some plants that can tolerate low light conditions, such as Java fern, Java moss, Anubias, or Cryptocorynes, along the back and sides of the aquarium. The true beauty of the Rummy-nose Tetra will be revealed under these conditions. They enjoy swimming in open areas between aquariums' middle to middle-bottom levels.

The ideal tank habitat for Rummy-nose Tetras should be at least 20 gallons, with a preference for a 30-gallon community tank. Maintain water parameters within a stable range, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0, a hardness of 5-12 dGH, and a temperature of 75-81°F (24-27°C).