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(C0) Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus)

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Description

Description

Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus)

📌 Basic Info

  • Scientific Name: Phenacogrammus interruptus

  • Common Names: Congo Tetra, African Congo Tetra

  • Family: Alestidae (African Tetras)

  • Order: Characiformes

  • Origin: Central Africa — mainly in the Congo River Basin, inhabiting slow-moving rivers and forest streams.

  • Size: Up to 8–9 cm (3–3.5 inches)

  • Lifespan: 4 – 6 years

  • Tank Zone: Middle to upper levels

🌊 Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)

  • pH: 6.0 – 7.5

  • Hardness: 3 – 18 dGH

  • TDS: 100 – 250 ppm

🐟 Characteristics

  • Body Shape: Elongated and slightly flattened sides.

  • Coloration: Shimmering iridescent hues — blue, violet, orange, and gold with a silvery base. Males have extended flowing fins with a metallic sheen.

  • Sexual Dimorphism: Males are larger with longer fins and brighter colors.

  • Behavior: Peaceful schooling fish, active and graceful swimmers.

🍽️ Diet

  • Type: Omnivorous

  • Diet: High-quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.

  • Feeding Frequency: 2 – 3 times daily in small portions.

  • Tip: Add carotenoid-rich foods to enhance their rainbow colors.

🛠️ Maintenance

  • Tank Size: Minimum 100 liters (25 gallons) for a small group.

  • Filtration: Gentle but efficient filtration; prefers clean, well-oxygenated water.

  • Substrate: Dark sand or fine gravel enhances color contrast.

  • Decor: Dense plants, driftwood, and open swimming space.

  • Lighting: Moderate; soft lighting brings out iridescence.

  • Water Change: 25–30% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

  • Nature: Peaceful, schooling fish.

  • Tank Mates: Ideal with similar-sized peaceful species like Rainbowfish, Rasboras, Corydoras, Angelfish, and Gouramis.

  • Avoid: Fin-nippers or overly aggressive fish.

  • Activity: Active during the day, especially under dim light.

✅ Do’s
• Keep in groups of 6 or more for natural schooling behavior.
• Use dark background and substrate to highlight their colors.
• Maintain stable, clean water conditions.

❌ Don’ts
• Avoid keeping alone — they become shy and lose color.
• Don’t mix with fin-nipping species.
• Avoid bright, harsh lighting.

⭐ Quick Tip:
The Congo Tetra is one of the most beautiful freshwater schooling fish, admired for its rainbow-like sheen and graceful movements. A perfect showpiece for community aquariums with gentle companions.