Maximum size : 5 cm

Rummy Nose Tetra - Hemigrammus rhodostomus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide

The Rummy Nose Tetra (Hemigrammus rhodostomus) is a captivating species renowned for its striking appearance and tranquil demeanour, making it a sought-after choice among aquarists worldwide. Recognizable for their vibrant red snouts contrasted against a silver body, Rummy Nose Tetras add a splash of colour and elegance to any freshwater aquarium. Known for their resilience and adaptability, Hemigrammus rhodostomus is suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists seeking to enhance their aquatic environment with a touch of vibrancy and grace.

It is advisable to keep Rummy Nose Tetras in groups of eight or more, as their schooling behaviour becomes more pronounced and visually appealing in larger numbers. Given their peaceful disposition, Rummy Nose Tetras can cohabitate harmoniously with a variety of fish species that exhibit similar temperaments and water preferences. Compatible tankmates typically include Tetras, peaceful barbs, danios, catfish, and smaller cichlids, ensuring a serene and balanced aquarium environment.

The Rummy-Nose Tetra flourishes in an aquarium environment that replicates its natural habitat. Optimal conditions include abundant vegetation, subdued lighting, and a dark substrate. Incorporating plants, driftwood, and leaf litter not only enhances the visual aesthetics but also provides essential hiding places for the fish, promoting their sense of security.

Rummy Nose Tetras boasts a captivating torpedo-shaped body with a translucent silvery hue and a subtle greenish tint. At the junction where the fontanel meets the body, shimmering green scales are often visible. A strikingly vibrant red nose enhances their allure, while the tail features a zebra-like pattern of black and white horizontal stripes.

1 Rummy Nose Tetra variant

Below is a list of Variant/Colour Morphs of the Rummy Nose Tetra

Rummy Nose Tetra Photos

Sexual Dimorphism

Identifying the gender of Rummy Nose Tetras can prove to be a difficult task due to the lack of clear, distinguishing characteristics between the sexes. Nonetheless, it is commonly observed that females tend to have a slightly larger body size when compared to their male counterparts. This subtle difference in size is often the best indicator available for distinguishing between male and female Rummy Nose Tetras.

Male Female

Quick Facts

Scientific Name	Hemigrammus rhodostomus
Year Described	1924
Kingdom	Animalia
Classification	Actinopterygii
Order	Characiformes
Family	Characidae
Genus	Hemigrammus
Origins	Brazil , Peru
Max Size	5 cm
Temperament	Peaceful
Aquarium Level	Middle
Difficulty	Beginner - Intermediate
Shoaling	Yes
Best kept as	Groups 6+
Diet & Feeding	Omnivore
Reproduction	Egg-Scatterer
Average Lifespan	Up to 5 Years

Water Parameters

Water Type	Freshwater
pH	6.5 - 7.5
GH	2 - 15

Ideal Temperature
℉	76 - 80
℃	24 - 27

Natural Habitat

The Rummy Nose Tetra originates from the blackwater regions of the Rio Orinoco in Venezuela and the lower Amazon Basin in Brazil, South America. These fish thrive in soft, acidic waters enriched with humic acid derived from decomposing leaf litter, typically covering riverbed substrates composed of soft sand. Their natural habitats are characterized by the presence of rocks, caves, and dense vegetation, providing ample shade and abundant food sources. These features facilitate the growth and development of these fish in their wild environments.

Their living environment should ideally mimic the Amazonian blackwaters, incorporating elements like soft, sandy substrates, driftwood, and leaves to simulate the tea-coloured waters they originate from. Despite their adaptability to traditional aquarium settings, maintaining optimal water quality and conditions reflective of their native habitat is paramount for their health and vibrancy.

Breeding

The primary challenge in breeding Rummy Nose Tetras lies in ensuring an appropriate mix of males and females, given the difficulty in distinguishing their sexes. Often, this process involves trial and error. To promote breeding, the aquarium's water conditions must be carefully maintained. Raise the tank's temperature to approximately 84 degrees Fahrenheit, which should stimulate spawning.

Effective filtration is crucial, as these fish are sensitive and will not spawn in polluted water. The breeding process occurs around plants, so it is essential to include an ample amount in the aquarium. The female Rummy Nose Tetra will approach a leaf, flip over, and allow the male to fertilize the eggs.

The female will then release several large eggs. At this point, it is vital to separate the adult fish from the eggs to prevent predation. The eggs will hatch within 24 hours, but the fry will not become free-swimming for about six days.

Diet & Feeding

Including high-quality flakes or pellets in the diet of Rummy Nose Tetras serves as a foundational element, providing them with essential nutrients vital for their optimal health. Occasionally offering treats, such as bloodworms and daphnia, either frozen or live, once or twice weekly, can enrich their diet with added protein. Moreover, introducing finely chopped green vegetables can provide variety and nutritional benefits. This balanced approach caters to their dietary preferences and contributes to their overall well-being and vitality.