Origins and Classification
- Scientific Name: Prionobrama filigera
- Family: Characidae (Tetras)
- Origin: Native to South America, primarily found in slow-moving rivers and tributaries of the Amazon Basin in Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia.
- Popularity: Appreciated for its delicate, translucent body and vibrant red coloration, the Glass Blood Tetra is a peaceful schooling fish ideal for planted community aquariums.
🎨 Appearance
- Color: Semi-transparent, silvery body with a red tail and ventral area, giving it a “blood-glass” effect under aquarium lighting.
- Structure:
- Slender, streamlined body with long, elegant fins.
- Males display slightly more color intensity than females.
- Size: Grows up to 2 inches (5 cm).
- Lifespan: 4–5 years in clean, stable aquariums.
🏡 Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum 15–20 gallons for a small group of 8–10 individuals.
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: 5–12 dGH
- Lighting: Moderate; enhances their subtle red tones and transparency.
- Substrate: Dark sand or fine gravel helps their color stand out.
- Habitat Setup:
- Include live plants, driftwood, and gentle filtration.
- Keep open swimming space at the mid-water level.
- Slight tannin tint (from almond leaves or driftwood) mimics their natural environment.
