Tiger Teddy Livebearer - Neoheterandria elegans : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Tiger Teddy Livebearer (Neoheterandria elegans) is a diminutive yet captivating species within the Poeciliidae family. It is native to the freshwater ecosystems of Central and South America, particularly Colombia. While Tiger Teddys are not widely prevalent in the aquarium hobby, there is a growing interest in this species due to its small size, making it an excellent option for nano aquariums or compact desktop aquatic ecosystems.
The Tiger Teddy, characterized by its reserved demeanour, is not ideally suited for the typical community aquarium, primarily due to its diminutive stature. This species flourishes most effectively when kept in larger groups within a dedicated, species-specific setting. A recommended ratio is to maintain at least two females for every male. If companions are desired, suitable tankmates include Dwarf Corydoras and Otocinclus Catfish, with shrimp also being a harmonious addition.
Creating an ideal habitat for these fish involves ensuring clean water and abundant plant life in the aquarium. Due to their small size and vulnerability, particularly for the fry, filtration should be mild. Many aquarists favour a simple sponge air-driven filter or a small internal filter with a reduced output to minimize current.
These fish are more inclined to spend time in open spaces if the aquarium is rich in fine-leaved vegetation, providing ample hiding places. This encourages exploration, with the assurance of quick retreats to safety when needed. Maintaining excellent water quality is crucial, as they are sensitive to high nitrate levels. The water temperature should consistently exceed 24 °C, as they do not fare well in cooler conditions.
In terms of appearance, both male and female Tiger Teddys exhibit a rich olive-brown hue adorned with six to nine vertical bands that differ in width. Notably, the band beneath the dorsal fin expands into a wedge-shaped or circular spot, encircled by a striking metallic gold-to-amber border, which is a defining characteristic leading to its name. In certain individuals, this border may present shades of orange or red. The unpaired fins typically display shades ranging from dark gold to dark brown, accentuated by a deep blue outline. A distinct feature of this species is the gold-ringed eyes, adding to their unique and elegant appearance.
Tiger Teddy Livebearer Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing male from female Tiger Teddy Livebearers is straightforward. Males are characterized by a prominent gonopodium and are generally smaller in size compared to females. Additionally, males exhibit more vivid colouration and have a less rounded body shape.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Neoheterandria elegans |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1916 |
| Other Names | Orange Dwarf Toothcarp, Elegant poeciliid |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cyprinodontiformes |
| Family | Poeciliidae |
| Genus | Neolebias |
| Origins | Colombia |
| Max Size | 2.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | All Levels |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | 2 Females per Male |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Livebearer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 3 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| TDS | 90 - 447 |
| ℉ | 75 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 24 - 28 |
Natural Habitat
The Tiger Teddy Livebearer is native to the Truando River, a tributary of the Rio Atrato in Colombia, South America. This species is typically found in shallow waters characterized by abundant vegetation.
Breeding
The breeding process of Tiger Teddy Livebearers can be efficiently managed under optimal conditions and with a diet of high-quality foods. During courtship, the male exhibits a display to attract the female. Upon acceptance, he uses his gonopodium to inseminate the female, transferring sperm to her oviduct.
Males may persistently pursue females, hence a well-planted aquarium is beneficial in providing females with necessary hiding spaces. A distinctive aspect of their reproductive behaviour is the female's ability to carry multiple broods at different developmental stages simultaneously. Unlike species such as Guppies or Swordtails that release their entire brood at once, Tiger Teddy females typically give birth to 2-4 fry per day over several days.
Newly born fry are extremely small, measuring about 2 to 3mm in length, and therefore require very fine initial food sources to accommodate their diminutive size.
Diet & Feeding
The Tiger Teddy Livebearer, an omnivorous species, exhibits a versatile approach to feeding in its natural habitat. To ensure their health and vitality in captivity, it is important to provide a diverse and balanced diet that mirrors their natural dietary preferences. This diet should include a mix of high-quality flake or micro-pellet foods designed for small tropical fish, which will cater to their basic nutritional needs.
Supplementing this with small live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, or microworms can offer additional protein and enhance their diet's nutritional value. It is also beneficial to include plant-based foods, such as finely chopped vegetables or spirulina, to reflect the variety of their natural foraging habits. Regular, small feedings are recommended to mimic natural feeding patterns and to maintain optimal water quality.
Other Other Livebearers
1 More Other Livebearers Profiles
View All