Description
Rummy Nose Tetra (Hemigrammus rhodostomus / Petitella georgiae / Hemigrammus bleheri)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Hemigrammus bleheri (most common species in trade)
Common Name: Rummy Nose Tetra
Size: ~2 inches (5 cm)
Lifespan: 5 – 6 years
Tank Zone: Middle swimmers
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): 50 – 150 ppm
pH: 5.5 – 7.0
Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75°F – 82°F)
Water Type: Soft, slightly acidic, clean, well-filtered water
🐟 Characteristics
Famous for their bright red nose and striped black-and-white tail
Peaceful schooling fish, very active swimmers
Sensitive to poor water quality → indicator of tank health (red nose fades when stressed)
Stunning display in large groups in planted aquariums
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality flakes, micro-pellets, frozen/live foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms)
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily, in small amounts
🛠️ Maintenance
Weekly water change: 25–30%
Needs stable, clean water – sensitive to ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate
Prefers planted tanks with shaded areas and swimming space
Gentle filtration, avoid strong currents
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: 8 (better in 10–15+) → more confident and show best color
Tank Mates: Peaceful species – tetras, rasboras, corydoras, dwarf gouramis, discus, angelfish, shrimps
Avoid: Aggressive, fin-nippers, or large predatory fish
✅ Do’s
Keep them in large schools for best effect
Maintain stable water parameters → very important
Provide live plants, driftwood, and open swimming areas
❌ Don’ts
Don’t add them to an immature (new) tank → they are sensitive
Don’t keep in very hard or alkaline water
Don’t neglect water changes or overfeed
⭐ Quick Tips
Rummy Nose Tetra is a peaceful, schooling beauty with a striking red nose and striped tail
Acts as a “water quality indicator fish” → fading color signals stress or poor water
Perfect for aquascaped or community tanks with stable, soft water
