Buenos Aires Tetra - Albino - Hyphessobrycon anisitsi var. "Albino" : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Albino Buenos Aires Tetra (Hyphessobrycon anisitsi) is a relatively peaceful, resilient, and active fish species, making it an excellent pick for beginners and community aquariums. These Tetras are known for their hardiness and longevity, requiring no specific conditions to thrive. However, it is critical to keep them well-fed to reduce their tendency to nip fins, especially in tanks shared with long-finned species.
When Albino Buenos Aires Tetras are kept in schools, their social behaviour is at its best, which can further decrease the incidence of fin-nipping. But potential keepers should be aware of these Tetras' predisposition towards eating live plants in the aquarium.
With their unique mix of size and agility, Albino Buenos Aires Tetras make an ideal choice for cohabitation with territorial species such as small Central American Cichlids or Eartheaters. These Tetras serve as beneficial targets for aggression, promoting a harmonious tank environment, provided the aquarium is spacious enough for them to retreat when necessary.
Buenos Aires Tetra - Albino Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Identifying the sex of Albino Buenos Aires Tetras is typically straightforward and hinges primarily on observable physical traits. Females usually display a more substantial, fuller body, particularly noticeable in the more rounded shape of their stomach region. Conversely, male Albino Buenos Aires Tetras often showcase more brightly coloured red fins, which can sometimes exhibit a slight yellowish tint. These distinct features in body form and fin colouration enable a relatively easy differentiation between the sexes in this species.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon anisitsi var. "Albino" |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1907 |
| Other Names | Diamond Spot Characin, Red Cross Fish |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Hyphessobrycon |
| Origins | Argentina , Paraguay , Brazil |
| Max Size | 7 cm |
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Scatterer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 10 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 5.8 - 8.5 |
| GH | 2 - 35 |
| ℉ | 64 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 17 - 28 |
Natural Habitat
The Albino Buenos Aires Tetra, while bearing its roots in the La Plata region of South America, is not commonly found in the wild. This particular variant is a product of selective breeding, cultivated by humans for its distinctive aesthetic appeal. The Buenos Aires Tetra species, in its natural form, is indigenous to Argentina, Paraguay, and Southeastern Brazil. In these regions, these stunning fish occupy a diverse range of aquatic environments, from tranquil ponds and lakes to streams, including two prominent rivers - the Uruguay and Parana rivers.
Being a freshwater species, the original Buenos Aires Tetras display a high sensitivity to both pollution and excessive salinity in their environment. Thus, they thrive in clean, balanced aquatic environments that closely mimic their natural habitats. The Albino Buenos Aires Tetra is a testament to human intervention in the realm of fishkeeping. While these fish are not typically encountered in the wild, they've become a popular choice for both novice and experienced aquarists due to their striking appearance and unique environmental preferences.
From their captivating charm to their resilience, Albino Buenos Aires Tetras offer an intriguing and delightful experience for anyone looking to add a touch of the extraordinary to their aquariums.
Breeding
Breeding Albino Buenos Aires Tetras is a rather uncomplicated procedure, making them an excellent choice for novice aquarists. They require no parental care, simplifying the breeding process. Begin by preparing a separate, dimly lit breeding tank filled with ample plant coverage like Java moss or a similar substitute. These plants provide the necessary spaces for the female to lay her eggs. Alternatively, spawning mops can be used as well.
The breeding tank's water should be slightly acidic and soft, with a temperature a few degrees warmer than their usual environment. Introduce a small air-powered filter into the tank setup to ensure gentle water circulation and adequate filtration. These Tetras can breed in small groups or pairs. To optimize the breeding results, choose the fish displaying the most vibrant colours and supplement their diet with ample small live foods. The spawning typically occurs at dawn, with the females depositing their eggs on the plants in the tank.
Post spawning, it's important to remove the parent fish promptly to protect the eggs from potential predation. Within a timeframe of 24 to 36 hours, the eggs will begin to hatch. Approximately 3 to 4 days later, the hatched fry will start swimming freely, signalling the successful completion of the breeding cycle.
Diet & Feeding
Albino Buenos Aires Tetras are well-known for their flexibility in terms of diet, readily consuming a variety of food types. This range includes dried, flake, and freeze-dried food options. However, to ensure these Tetras maintain their optimal health, condition, and vibrant colouration, it's recommended to supplement their diet with live foods. Suitable choices include daphnia, bloodworms, mosquito larvae, and brine shrimp.
A feeding routine involving multiple sessions per day is often beneficial for Buenos Aires Tetras. However, it's essential to remember that the portions given during each feeding session should be small. This practice not only promotes better digestion but also helps maintain a cleaner tank environment by reducing excess food waste.
Other Tetras
121 More Tetras Profiles
View All