Heiko’s tetra

Moenkhausia heikoi

A broad dark stripe through a large eye, edged by a fine bright line

The broad dark band runs from the snout through the eye to the tail base. A fine pale line lies above it, and the upper eye can show a greenish-yellow or copper sheen.

Adult length: Up to 8.7 cm

Natural habitat: Native to fresh waters of Brazil; detailed wild habitat information is limited.

Provide shaded refuges away from direct flow, and do not point a strong pump at the fish. Plan for adult size, not sale size.

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Appearance and identification

Compare the large eye and stripe together. Astyanax dnophos is a synonym of this species, not an additional fish.

Same-species behaviour

Lives in loose groups in the wild; keep a group.

Space requirements

Arrange stable rock or wood shelters with shade and relief from flow, alongside swimming space. A 150 cm tank length and 450 L volume are recommended.