Rummy Nose Tetra (Hemigrammus rhodostomus) Import

Rummy Nose Tetra (Hemigrammus rhodostomus, Petitella georgiae, or Hemigrammus bleheri)

The Rummy Nose Tetra is a peaceful, schooling freshwater fish that stands out for its striking red nose and black-and-white striped tail. Native to South America, these tetras are prized for their tight schooling behavior and vibrant coloration. They make an excellent addition to community aquariums and are a favorite among aquarists for planted and biotope setups.

Natural Habitat

Rummy Nose Tetras inhabit the clear and blackwater streams of the Amazon River Basin, particularly in Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. These waters are warm, soft, and slightly acidic, with dense vegetation and shaded conditions.

Aquarium Care

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 60 liters for a group of 6–8 individuals.
• Water Temperature: 24–28°C.
• pH Range: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic water preferred).
• Water Hardness: 2–10 dGH (soft water).
• Filtration: Moderate flow with high-quality biological filtration to maintain stable water conditions.

Aquascaping

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel.
• Plants: Add live plants like Amazon Swords, Cryptocoryne, Java Fern, and floating plants to create shade.
• Decor: Include driftwood, rocks, and leaf litter to mimic their natural habitat.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting enhances their colors and replicates their native environment.

Tank Mates

Rummy Nose Tetras are peaceful and thrive in community tanks with other gentle species. Suitable companions include:

• Small tetras, rasboras, or pencilfish.
• Corydoras catfish or small loaches.
• Dwarf cichlids like Apistogramma or Bolivian Rams.
• Shrimp species like Amano or cherry shrimp.
  Avoid: Aggressive, large, or fin-nipping fish that may stress or harm them.

Feeding

Rummy Nose Tetras are omnivorous and benefit from a varied diet:

• Staple Foods: High-quality micro-pellets or flakes designed for tropical fish.
• Protein: Supplement with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
• Vegetable Matter: Include occasional spirulina-based foods or blanched vegetables.
  Feed small portions 1–2 times daily, ensuring all individuals are well-fed.

Behavior and Personality

• Activity: Active swimmers that spend most of their time in the midwater column.
• Social Behavior: They are shoaling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6–8 to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior.
• Temperament: Peaceful and shy, they thrive in calm, well-planted tanks.

Breeding

Breeding Rummy Nose Tetras is possible but requires careful attention to water conditions.

Sexing

• Males: Slimmer bodies with slightly more vibrant coloration.
• Females: Rounder, especially when carrying eggs.

Breeding Tank Setup

• A separate breeding tank of at least 20 liters with soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5.5–6.5) is recommended.
• Use fine-leafed plants like Java Moss or spawning mops for egg-laying.
• Maintain water temperature around 26–28°C.

Breeding Process

1. Condition breeding pairs with live or frozen foods.
2. Spawning occurs in the early morning, with eggs scattered on plants or the substrate.
3. Remove adults after spawning to prevent egg predation.
4. Eggs hatch in 24–36 hours, and fry become free-swimming after 3–4 days.

Fry Care

• Feed fry infusoria or liquid fry food initially.
• Transition to baby brine shrimp or finely powdered food as they grow.

Key Notes

• Coloration: The vibrancy of their red nose is an indicator of water quality; dull colors may signal stress or poor conditions.
• Water Maintenance: Regular water changes and stable parameters are essential to their health.
• Schooling Behavior: Keep them in larger groups for their natural schooling displays and reduced stress.

The Rummy Nose Tetra is a captivating species that brings color, activity, and elegance to community aquariums. Its striking appearance, peaceful nature, and ease of care make it a rewarding choice for aquarists seeking a harmonious and visually appealing tank.