Ornate tetra

Megalamphodus bentosi

A dark high dorsal fin above a pale pink-silver body

Mature males develop extended dorsal and anal fins; younger fish and females have shorter fins.

Natural habitat: Sluggish tributaries, side channels and forest lakes with submerged wood and vegetation, usually in brown-stained, low-mineral water.

Use mature, stable water and prevent organic waste accumulation.

Appearance and identification

Rosy tetras and whitefin trade labels can be confused; neither a shoulder mark nor white fin tips identify it alone.

Keep a mixed group of eight to ten or more, with room for male display and hierarchy.

Allow a 90 × 30 cm base with shaded retreats and swimming space.

Rotate appropriate dry, frozen and live foods.

Assess male competition and companion behaviour.

Plants, wood and subdued light provide shelter.

Sources