Overview
The Ornate Tetra is a deep-bodied fish with a shape typical of some of the larger tetras, such as the Bleeding Heart Tetra. This fish will generally reach about 2 inches (5 cm) in the home aquarium though it will occasionally reach up to 3 inches (7.5 cm). It has a lifespan of about 3 to 5 years.
Its coloration and appearance are very similar to its close relative, the Rosy Tetra, with the differences being quite subtle. Both fish have a pink-to-deep-salmon body color, though the Ornate Tetra will often appear more transparent. Both species also have dark red markings on their fins. The Ornate Tetra has a faint grayish 'shoulder patch,' which is absent on the Rosy Tetra.
These two tetras can usually be told apart by subtle differences in their fin coloration. The Ornate Tetra has white markings on its dorsal and pelvic fin extensions, thus the term 'white 'tip.' The Rosy Tetra has a black marking or 'flag' on its dorsal fin extension and will sometimes (but not always) have white-tipped fins. Of course, an occasional Ornate Tetra will have the black 'flag' type marking on its dorsal fin as well.
Care
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: peaceful
Colour Form: Red
Diet: Omnivore
Max Size: 7cm
Family: Chacidae
Tank Size: 60L
Temperature: 22-26c
pH: 6.5-7.5
*Product Photo is for reference only. Exact fish may vary in size and colour.
*Photo and information provided by Live Aquaria.
