The Rummy Nose Tetra (Hemigrammus rhodostomus) is a popular and vibrant freshwater fish, often seen in planted tanks and Discus setups due to its peaceful nature and stunning appearance. It is especially notable for its bright red nose and sleek, silver body, making a school of them a captivating sight as they swim together.
Appearance:
Body: Sleek, silver body with a distinct red-colored nose.
Tail: Black and white striped pattern on the tail fin.
When kept in a well-planted, stress-free environment, their red nose becomes even more vibrant, serving as a sign of good health.
Natural Habitat:
Native to the Amazon River, particularly the Rio Negro floodplain in central Amazonia.
They thrive in soft, slightly acidic waters, usually filled with vegetation and shaded areas.
Aquarium Care:
Tank Size: Rummy Nose Tetras do best in tanks of at least 40 liters with plenty of swimming space.
Shoaling Fish: They are a social species that should be kept in schools of 6 or more to avoid stress.
Plants & Hiding Spaces: They feel more secure when provided with plants (real or artificial) and hiding spaces.
Lighting: Can be shy if exposed to bright lights, so soft lighting is preferred.
Behavior:
Community Fish: They are peaceful and make excellent tank mates for similarly sized, non-aggressive species.
Swimming Level: They typically swim in the mid-levels of the tank but may move up or down in search of food.
Stress Indicators: When stressed, they may hide among plants or show duller coloration, so it's important to maintain stable water conditions and avoid overstocking the tank.
Diet:
Omnivorous: They accept a variety of foods, including flakes, freeze-dried, frozen, and smaller live foods like brine shrimp and daphnia.
A varied diet will help them thrive and display their best colors.
Breeding:
Egg Layers: They lay eggs during breeding, typically in dense vegetation. Providing spawning mops or leafy plants can encourage breeding behavior.
Tank Setup for Breeding: Soft, acidic water conditions and low lighting can help create a suitable environment for successful breeding.
 
Species Overview:
Species: Hemigrammus rhodostomus
Common Name: Rummy Nose Tetra
Origin: Amazon River, Rio Negro floodplain, South America
Diet: Omnivore
pH Range: 6.0 – 7.0
Temperature: 23-27°C
Max Size: Approximately 5 cm
Current Size: Approximately 3.5 cm
Sex: Un-sexed