🐠 Red Widow Tetra Overview Category Details Common Name Red Widow Tetra Scientific Name Gymnocorymbus ternetzi (color morph) Family Characidae Origin Amazon Basin, South America (color variant is captive-bred)...
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Red Widow Tetra |
| Scientific Name | Gymnocorymbus ternetzi (color morph) |
| Family | Characidae |
| Origin | Amazon Basin, South America (color variant is captive-bred) |
| Size | 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8–5 cm) |
| Lifespan | 3 to 5 years |
| Temperament | Peaceful, slightly nippy if kept alone |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate |
Body Shape: Classic tetra shape—flattened sides and deep body.
Color: Bright red hue (developed via selective breeding), often semi-transparent with solid red pigmentation.
Fins: Can be translucent or slightly red.
Gender Differences:
Females: Slightly larger and plumper.
Males: Slightly slimmer and more colorful.
🔴 Note: This is a variant of the Black Widow Tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi) bred for vibrant red coloration. There are also other color variants like white, blue, and gold.
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F (22–26°C) |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Hardness | 5–15 dGH |
| Tank Size | Minimum 15 gallons |
Keep a school of at least 6–8 fish to reduce stress and aggression.
Substrate: Dark gravel or sand helps enhance coloration.
Decor: Plants (Java fern, Amazon sword), driftwood, caves.
Lighting: Moderate (too bright can cause stress).
Filtration: Gentle to moderate flow.
Heater: Yes, to maintain tropical temperatures.
Feeding Type: Omnivorous.
Staple Foods:
High-quality flake food
Micro-pellets
Treats:
Frozen/live brine shrimp
Daphnia, bloodworms
Blanched spinach or zucchini (occasional)
Feed small portions 2 times a day. Avoid overfeeding.
Schooling: Strongly prefers to be in groups of 6 or more.
Activity Level: Active mid-level swimmers.
Temperament: Peaceful but may nip fins if isolated.
Tank Mates:
Guppies, mollies, platies
Corydoras, rasboras
Tetras (neon, ember, glowlight)
Shrimp and snails
❌ Avoid long-finned or slow-moving fish (e.g., bettas, angelfish).
Spawning Type: Egg scatterer.
Breeding Tank Setup:
Fine-leaved plants or spawning mops
Soft, slightly acidic water
Gentle filtration and dim lighting
Spawning Behavior:
Happens early morning.
Eggs are laid and fertilized over plants.
Fry Care:
Eggs hatch in 24–36 hours.
Remove adults to prevent egg-eating.
Feed fry infusoria or powdered fry food.
| Issue | Cause / Symptom | Prevention / Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Ich | White spots on body and fins | Quarantine & treat with medication |
| Fin Rot | Frayed fins | Clean water + antibacterial meds |
| Bloat | Swollen belly from overfeeding | Feed balanced, high-fiber diet |
| Stress | Color loss, hiding, darting behavior | Maintain stable water + proper group size |
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 1.5–2 inches |
| Group Size | 6+ (schooling fish) |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Ideal Temp | 72–79°F (22–26°C) |
| Tank Size | 15+ gallons |
| Tank Level | Mid-level swimmer |
| Best For | Community aquariums |