The Rummy-Nose Tetra gets its name from the red blushing across its nose and face. But its beautiful coloration does not end there. Hemigrammus bleheri has a mirror-like silver body and a jet-black tail striped with white. This color pattern adds a simple, yet striking beauty to any freshwater aquarium. The Rummy-Nose Tetra is a peaceful omnivore that makes an excellent addition to community aquariums with non-aggressive tankmates.

This fish native to South America thrives in well-planted systems. In addition to plants, decorate the aquarium with scattered rocks and driftwood to simulate its natural habitat. As with other shoaling fish, a school of six or more Rummynose Tetras creates an impressive aquarium display. For best care, offer a variety of foods, including brine shrimp or daphnia, freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, micro pellet food, and high quality flake diets.

The Rummy-Nose Tetra will breed occasionally in the home aquarium and a hospital or “breeding tank” will be necessary to rear the fry. Slightly acidic water is best for optimal breeding conditions. After the eggs begin to hatch, removing the parents will be necessary to reduce the number of lost fry.