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Rummy Nose Tetra

Hemigrammus rhodostomus

The tightest-schooling tetra in the hobby. Rummy Nose Tetras move as one unified group — a mesmerizing sight in any aquascape. Their brilliant red nose is also a water quality indicator: vivid red means healthy water, pale means stress.

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Quick Facts

Max Size2"
Lifespan5–6 years
Min Tank20 gal
DietOmnivore
SchoolingYes (8+)
OriginSouth America

Water Parameters

Temperature2428°C
pH Range5.57

Natural Habitat

Blackwater tributaries of the Amazon basin with soft, acidic water. Often found in large schools near submerged wood and vegetation.

Region

Amazon & Orinoco basins

Countries

Brazil, Venezuela

Feeding

Quality flake, micro pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp. Benefits from varied diet.

Compatible Tank Mates

Good Matches

Cardinal TetraCorydoras sterbaiDiscusAngelfish (with caution)ApistogrammaAmano Shrimp

Avoid

Large predatory fishAggressive cichlids

Breeding

Difficult. Requires very soft, acidic water. Egg scatterer — remove parents after spawning.

Care Tips

The best schooling tetra — always swim in tight formation

Red nose intensity = water quality indicator

Sensitive to water parameter changes — acclimate slowly

Perfect companion for Discus tanks

More Tetras

Cardinal Tetra

Paracheirodon axelrodi

2"Easy

Neon Tetra

Paracheirodon innesi

1.5"Easy

Ember Tetra

Hyphessobrycon amandae

0.8"Easy

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