The Rummy Nose Tetra is a popular freshwater aquarium fish from the Amazon Basin, renowned for its striking red face, silver body, and black-and-white striped tail. They are widely considered one of the best schooling fish in the hobby, moving in tight, synchronized groups.
Key Characteristics
Appearance: A torpedo-shaped silver body featuring a bright red snout and a tail with five horizontal black-and-white stripes.
"Canary in the Coal Mine": Their red noses fade to pale when they are stressed or if water quality (like ammonia or nitrate levels) is poor, acting as a visible health indicator.
Size & Lifespan: They grow to approximately 5 cm (2 inches) and typically live for 5 to 6 years with proper care.
Species Variants: While often sold as one fish, there are three distinct species:
True Rummy Nose (Petitella rhodostomus).
Firehead Tetra (Petitella bleheri) – featuring more intense red that extends past the gills.
False Rummy Nose (Petitella georgiae).
Aquarium Care Requirements
Tank Size: A minimum of 60–75 litres (15–20 gallons) is recommended to accommodate their active swimming and schooling nature.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 23°C – 28°C (73°F – 82°F).
pH: Prefers soft, acidic water between 5.5 and 7.0.
Sensitivity: They are sensitive to water fluctuations and should be introduced only to fully established, mature aquariums.
Diet: Omnivores that accept high-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and frozen/live foods like brine shrimp or daphnia.
Environment: Thrives in well-planted tanks with dark substrate and driftwood, which mimic their natural blackwater habitats.
Behavior & Compatibility
Schooling: Must be kept in groups of at least 6 to 10; larger groups of 12+ result in more natural behavior and less stress.
Temperament: Extremely peaceful and social.
Ideal Tank Mates: Other peaceful community fish like Neon or Cardinal Tetras, Corydoras catfish, Rasboras, and Dwarf Gouramis. Avoid large or aggressive species that may prey on them.
SKU: RBM
