Description
Remarks: Gold tetras (Hemigrammus rodwayi) are a perfect choice for nano tanks or for large planted tanks. They are hosts to a non-lethal trematode parasite that causes their bodies to over-produce guanine, which builds up and gives them their golden sheen. For this reason, some may appear somewhat blotchy, and tank raised specimens lack the gold coloration. In the wild, this shiny coloration would have the fish more susceptible to predation by birds which are the next step in the trematode’s life cycle, but in captivity the only negative effect is it can make the infected fish just slightly more susceptible to skin infections. They shimmer amazingly in both light and darkened tanks, and look at home in both the most expertly aquascaped planted tanks and messy South American biotopes, consumed by leaf litter and fallen branches.
A group of 10 will fit nicely in a 10 gallon tank with shrimp, dwarf cichlids, or other peaceful tetras. In a larger tank, such as a 40 gallon, we recommend at least 20 to fully enjoy their schooling behavior.
Scientific Name: Hemigrammus rodwayi
Common Name: Gold Tetra
Max Size: 1.5″
pH: 5.0-8.0
Hardness: Soft
Temperature: 70-82°
Aggressiveness: Peaceful
Region of Origin: South America
Captive Bred or Wild: Wild Caught
Diet: Small flake or pellet, small frozen or live foods
