Rummy Nose Tetras (Hemmigrammus rhodostomus) are small, peaceful, and visually striking fish native to South America. Here's a comprehensive care guide:
Aquarium Requirements
1. Tank size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters) for a small school.
2. Water parameters: Soft to moderate water hardness (dGH 4-12), pH 6.5-7.5, temperature 22-26°C (72-79°F).
3. Substrate: Sand or fine-grained gravel, avoiding sharp or coarse substrates.
4. Decorations: Provide plenty of hiding places, such as plants, rocks, and driftwood.
Diet and Feeding
1. Omnivorous diet: Offer a varied diet including high-quality commercial flake or pellet foods, supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia.
2. Feeding frequency: Feed 2-3 times a day, only as much as they can consume within a few minutes.
Socialization and Tankmates
1. Schooling fish: Keep Rummy Nose Tetras in a small school of 6-10 individuals to promote social behavior.
2. Peaceful tankmates: Suitable tankmates include small peaceful fish, such as neon tetras, harlequin rasboras, or dwarf gouramis.
3. Avoid aggressive tankmates: Do not keep Rummy Nose Tetras with aggressive or fin-nipping fish, as they can be stressed or injured.
Health and Maintenance
1. Regular water changes: Perform regular water changes (10-20% every week) to maintain optimal water parameters.
2. Monitor water quality: Regularly test water parameters, including ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
3. Provide hiding places: Ensure the aquarium provides plenty of hiding places to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Breeding and Sexing
1. Sexing: Males have a more slender body and a smaller dorsal fin than females.
2. Breeding: Rummy Nose Tetras can be bred in a separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water and a temperature range of 22-24°C (72-75°F).
Additional Tips
1. Avoid overcrowding: Keep the aquarium population density low to prevent stress and disease.
2. Provide open swimming space: Ensure the aquarium has open swimming space for the tetras to swim and exercise.
3. Monitor for fin nipping: Rummy Nose Tetras can be prone to fin nipping, so monitor their behavior and separate aggressive individuals if necessary.
By following these guidelines, you can create a thriving environment for your Rummy Nose Tetras and enjoy their unique characteristics and behaviors.
