Moenkhausia costae (Tetra-Black Line Tail)

Moenkhausia costae (Tetra-Black Line Tail)

Origin:
The Tetra-Black Line Tail, scientifically known as Moenkhausia costae, is native to South America, primarily found in the clear, slow-moving rivers and streams of the Amazon Basin, particularly in Brazil and surrounding regions. This species is often found in shallow waters with dense vegetation.

Tank Size:
A minimum tank size of 20 gallons (76 liters) is recommended for a small school of Tetra-Black Line Tails. However, a larger tank will allow for better swimming space and improved water quality. Since they are schooling fish, they should be kept in groups of at least 6-8 individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.

Water Parameters:
Moenkhausia costae thrives in well-maintained water conditions. Here are the ideal parameters to replicate its natural habitat:

• Temperature: 24°C to 27°C
• pH: 6.0 to 7.5
• Hardness: Soft to medium hardness water
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: Below 20 ppm

Tank Mates:
Tetra-Black Line Tails are peaceful and non-aggressive fish, making them ideal for community aquariums. They do well with other peaceful fish such as smaller tetras, rasboras, Corydoras catfish, and dwarf cichlids. Avoid housing them with larger, more aggressive fish that may intimidate or harm them. They enjoy being in schools of their own kind for better comfort and social interaction.

Feeding:
Moenkhausia costae is an omnivore and will accept a variety of foods. A balanced diet should include high-quality flake foods, small pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and mosquito larvae. They will also enjoy occasional plant matter, including blanched vegetables or algae-based foods. A varied diet will help maintain their vibrant coloration and overall health.

Appearance and Behavior:
This species is characterized by its striking black horizontal line that runs from the head to the tail, creating an elegant, contrastive look. Their silvery bodies enhance the boldness of this black line, giving them a distinctive and attractive appearance. Tetra-Black Line Tails are active and graceful swimmers, spending much of their time in the middle and upper sections of the aquarium.

Care Tips:

• Provide plenty of hiding spots and dense plants for shelter and comfort, as these fish prefer areas with moderate to high plant cover.
• Maintain consistent water conditions and perform regular water changes (around 20% weekly) to keep the tank clean and the water quality high.
• Avoid sudden changes in water temperature or pH, as they can be sensitive to fluctuations.
• Be sure to provide a schooling environment, as they can become stressed and skittish if kept alone or in small groups.