Red Lamp Eye Tetra (Hemigrammopetersius caudalis)
 
The Red Lamp Eye Tetra (Hemigrammopetersius caudalis) is a striking and active schooling fish known for its glowing red eyes and elegant silver body. Native to West Africa, this peaceful tetra is an excellent choice for community aquariums, where its shimmering appearance and constant activity create an eye-catching display.
 
Species Information
Common Name: Red Lamp Eye Tetra
Scientific Name: Hemigrammopetersius caudalis
Origin: West Africa
Adult Size: 5–7 cm
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Easy
Lifespan: 3–5 Years
Minimum Tank Size: 75 Litres
 
Appearance
Red Lamp Eye Tetras have a slender, silver body with a subtle iridescent sheen. Their most distinctive feature is their bright red eyes, which appear to glow under aquarium lighting. The forked tail and streamlined shape give them a graceful appearance as they move through the water in schools.
 
Aquarium Requirements
These fish thrive in well-maintained aquariums with plenty of swimming space and areas of vegetation for security. A darker substrate and subdued lighting help enhance their colours.
 
Recommended Setup:
Planted aquarium with open swimming areas
Dark substrate
Driftwood and natural décor
Moderate water flow
Schooling group of at least 8–10 fish
 
Water Parameters
Temperature: 23–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: 2–12 dGH
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: Below 20 ppm
 
Diet
Red Lamp Eye Tetras are omnivorous and readily accept a wide range of foods.
 
Recommended Foods:
Quality flake food
Micro pellets
Frozen bloodworms
Frozen brine shrimp
Daphnia
Live foods
Crushed dry foods
 
A varied diet will promote vibrant colours and overall health.
Behaviour & Compatibility
A peaceful and social species that should always be kept in groups. Larger schools encourage natural behaviour and provide the most impressive display.
 
Suitable Tank Mates:
Other peaceful Tetras
Corydoras catfish
Dwarf Rainbowfish
Rasboras
Pencilfish
Hatchetfish
Peaceful Gouramis
Freshwater shrimp
 
Avoid keeping with aggressive or fin-nipping species.
Breeding
Red Lamp Eye Tetras are egg scatterers that can be bred in dedicated breeding aquariums.
 
Breeding Tips:
Use soft, slightly acidic water
Provide spawning mops or fine-leaved plants
Condition breeders with live and frozen foods
Remove adults after spawning
Eggs typically hatch within 24–48 hours
Fry should initially be fed infusoria and powdered fry foods before progressing to newly hatched brine shrimp.
 
Care Sheet
✔ Peaceful schooling species
✔ Stunning glowing red eyes
✔ Excellent community fish
✔ Best kept in groups of 8 or more
✔ Active and constantly on display
✔ Suitable for beginner and experienced aquarists
 
The Red Lamp Eye Tetra is a beautiful and underrated schooling fish that adds movement, elegance, and colour to any peaceful freshwater aquarium.