Congo Tetra

The Congo tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus) is an African species from the Congo River basin and one of the largest tetras kept in home aquariums. Adult males are the draw: a body scaled in shifting blue, gold and violet iridescence, and a dorsal, anal and caudal fin drawn out into long, hazy grey-white extensions that trail behind the fish as it moves. Females are smaller and plainer, but a proper mixed group is what brings the males into full display.

Aquarium care

• Large for a tetra: males can reach around 8 cm, females somewhat less.
• Needs swimming length, so a long tank rather than a tall one.
• Peaceful but nervous. It settles far better in a group of six or more.
• Prefers soft, slightly acidic water.
• Subdued lighting, dark substrate and floating cover bring out the best colour.
• Omnivorous: flake, pellets, frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp.
• Occupies the middle and upper levels.

They suit a larger community tank alongside other calm, medium-sized fish such as rainbowfish, larger rasboras and corydoras. They startle easily, so a busy walkway is the wrong spot for the tank.

Stock rotates with each shipment, and livestock is sold for local pickup at our Lethbridge store. See the rest of our tetras.