RUMMY NOSE TETRA

Rummy Nose Tetra (Hemigrammus rhodostomus), also known as the Red Nose Tetra or Firehead Tetra, is a popular and attractive freshwater fish known for its vibrant red head, silver body, and distinctive black-and-white striped tail. This schooling fish adds a striking visual element to community tanks and is admired for its peaceful nature and unique coloring. Here is a comprehensive care guide for the Rummy Nose Tetra:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a small school of Rummy Nose Tetras. A larger tank (30 gallons or more) is ideal for a larger group and to ensure ample swimming space.
• Aquascape: Rummy Nose Tetras prefer a natural environment with plenty of plants, driftwood, and open swimming areas. Use a mix of live plants such as Java fern, Anubias, and Amazon swords, and include floating plants to provide shade. Driftwood and leaf litter can replicate their natural habitat and provide additional hiding spots.
• Substrate: A dark substrate like fine gravel or sand is ideal, enhancing the contrast of the fish’s colors.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is suitable. Rummy Nose Tetras thrive in low to moderate light, and having shaded areas with plants or decorations will make them feel secure.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Rummy Nose Tetras prefer a temperature range of 75-82°F (24-28°C). Maintaining a stable temperature is important for their well-being.
• pH: They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Keeping the pH stable is crucial.
• Hardness: These fish prefer soft to moderately soft water, with a general hardness (GH) of 2-10 dGH.
• Water Quality: Rummy Nose Tetras are sensitive to water quality. Regular water changes of 20-25% weekly are essential to maintain optimal conditions. Use a water conditioner to treat tap water before adding it to the tank, and monitor water parameters regularly.

Filtration and Water Flow

• Filtration: A high-quality filtration system is necessary to maintain water quality. Canister filters or sponge filters that provide gentle water movement are recommended. Rummy Nose Tetras do not appreciate strong currents, so avoid filters that create excessive water flow.
• Water Flow: They prefer calm waters with slow to moderate water flow, similar to their natural riverine habitats.

Feeding

• Diet: Rummy Nose Tetras are omnivorous. Provide a varied diet that includes high-quality flake or pellet food, along with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and micro-worms. They also enjoy the occasional treat of algae-based foods or blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
• Variety: A varied diet ensures they receive all the necessary nutrients and helps maintain their vibrant colors.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice a day, offering only as much food as they can consume within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues.