Fish Data : Rosy Tetra

Distribution:

    The Rosy Tetra, also known as the Rosy Finned Tetra or the Rosey Tetra, was described by Durbin in 1909. They are found in South America, particularly in the Rio Guopore region of Paraguay and in the lower Amazon River Basin of Guyana and Suriname.

Status:
    The species is not listed on the IUCN Red List.

Description

    The Rosy Tetra is one of some 30 species commonly referred to as the "rosy tetra clade" within the genus Hyphessobrycon that share several traits in colour and pattern. All species are somewhat disk-shaped and share the "flag" signal, being a very conspicuous black spot on the dorsal fin, usually underlined by a white or sometimes yellow zone and tipped with white depending upon species. They also share a darkened humeral or shoulder patch immediately posterior of the gill covers. Durbin (1909) in first describing the subject species stated that the humeral (shoulder) patch was absent, but in fact it is present though quite pale in this species; Weitzman and Palmer (1996) state that over a light coloured substrate, the colours pale and the humeral patch is basically non-existent, but over a dark substrate the body colouration deepens and the humeral spot is visible.

    These above-mentioned traits are particularly similar between Hyphessobrycon rosaceus and H. bentosi, such that the two fish are frequently confused. The body red of H. rosaceus is somewhat paler than that of H. bentosi, and there are a number of small differing traits respecting the fins. In particular, this species possess white tips on the black pelvic and sickle-shaped anal fins, whereas the fins are pure black on H. bentosi. Previously, the subject species was frequently seen as Hyphessobrycon bentosi rosaceus [as in Baensch & Riehl, Aquarium Atlas I] but the species is now considered to be distinct as H. rosaceus

    The rosy tetra will do very well in a community tank with fish of a similar size such as other small tetras, corydoras catfish and small livebearers. They also appreciate a planted tank with oxygenating weeds such as elodea crispa, elodea densa and cambomba. It is highly reccomended that they are kept in groups of 7 or more as they feel much safer in greater numbers and also school together to create a beautiful effect.

    The Rosy tetra will accept normal dechlorinated tap water but ideally they prefer softer water that is slightly on the acidic side, see the care list below for more information on PH…but overall the Rosy tetra is a very easy fish to keep that is attractive, accepting of most foods and non aggressive

Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon roseaceus

Natural Habitat: South America tributaries

Common Names: Rosy tetra

Beginner Fish: Yes, provided the water is kept at a PH of 5.5-7.5 and are fed a varied diet

Adult Size: 1.7 inches.

Life Span: 3-5 years.

Tank Mates: Peaceful fish of similar size such as tetras, danios, gouramis, rasboras and corydoras

Tank Size: Minimum of 15 gallons.

Tank Region: Middle

Water Temperature: 72?F – 79?F

Water pH: 5.5 – 7.5

Care and feeding:

    Since they are omnivorous the Rosy Tetra should be given a nicely varied diet. They have fairly high vitamin requirements, so quality flake foods should make up about 60-80% of their diet. They love to chase after live foods and may occasionally nibble on plants or algae.

   These fish are fairly hardy and a school of six will do best in about a 20 gallon aquarium. The aquarium should be heavily planted around the sides and back and have plenty of open water for swimming in the front. A few hiding places would be appreciated. Woodwork and floating plants will make them feel comfortable

Water Region: Top, Middle, Bottom:
    The Rosy Tetra will inhabit all areas of the aquarium, but usually will spend a good deal of their time in the upper or middle or regions.

Acceptable Water Conditions:
    Temp: 75 - 82? F (24 - 28? C)
   Hardness: 5 -19? dH
   Ph: 6.0 - 7.5

Social Behaviors:
    In a well thought out aquarium the Rosy Tetra will be peaceful, active, and colorful. Be sure to keep them in a group of tetras, six is generally accepted as the minimum number to be housed together. This fish will happily school with its relatives (Rosy Tetra, Black Widow Tetra, White Skirt Tetra, Bleeding Heart Tetra, etc).

   Rowdy neighbors will bring out the worst in them, so keep with peaceful and non-fin nipping fish. They will be startled by loud sounds or excessive movement outside the tank, so keep in an appropriately placed tank.

Sexual Differences:

    The males will have longer fins, are more slender and more brightly colored than the females.

Breeding/Reproduction:

    Breeding the Rosy Tetra is a tricky, but a healthy pair will usually breed readily when brought together in fairly soft water and a slightly elevated temperature, 80 ? F (26? C). The pair should be isolated, ideally in a separate tank. The pair will distribute eggs on fine leaved plans. The parents should be removed right away. The fry will be free swimming after approximately five days. The tank's water should be changed frequently and care must be taken that no fry are lost in this process. The fry are fairly slow to reach maturity, and ought to be kept isolated until they are too large to be eaten. 

Credit : http://www.wereallwet.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/rosy-tetra1.jpg