Coaste Tetra

Coaste Tetras are an attractive and peaceful addition to community aquariums. Their stunning coloration and dynamic schooling behavior can enhance the visual appeal of your aquarium. With the right care, water conditions, and tank mates, they can thrive and provide joy to aquarists for many years.

• Size: Coaste Tetras grow to about 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6.5 cm) in length.
• Coloration: They are typically silver or light olive in color with a distinctive orange to red stripe running along their bodies and a dark spot located near the base of their tail fin.
• Lifespan: They can live for about 5 to 7 years in captivity, given proper care and conditions.

Habitat and Care Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 10 to 15 gallons (38 to 57 liters) is recommended. Larger tanks allow for better swimming space and more stable water conditions, especially in a community setup.
• Water Parameters: Coaste Tetras prefer slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The temperature should be maintained between 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C).
• Aquascaping: These fish thrive in a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots created by plants, driftwood, and rocks. They appreciate subdued lighting, which can be achieved with floating plants.
• Filtration: A gentle filtration system is ideal to keep the water clear without creating strong currents, which can stress the fish.

Feeding

Coaste Tetras are omnivorous and can benefit from a varied diet, including:

• High-quality flake food or small pellets designed for tropical fish.
• Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
• Occasional plant matter, like spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables.

Social Behavior

• Schooling Fish: Coaste Tetras are shoaling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6 to 8 individuals. Keeping them in groups helps reduce stress and allows them to showcase their natural schooling behavior.
• Compatibility: They are generally peaceful and can be housed with other small, non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include other Tetras, Rasboras, small Gouramis, and community-friendly species.

Breeding

• Breeding Setup: Breeding Coaste Tetras in a separate breeding tank is suggested, using very soft and slightly acidic water. Fine-leaved plants or spawning mops can serve as suitable surfaces for egg laying.
• Spawning Behavior: They are egg scatterers and do not exhibit parental care. After spawning, it’s best to remove the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs.
• Care of Fry: Once the eggs hatch, the fry will require infusoria or very finely crushed food until they grow larger.

Common Issues

• Water Quality: Good water quality must be maintained at all times, as Coaste Tetras are sensitive to poor conditions. Regular testing, water changes, and filtration can help prevent issues.
• Stress: Like many Tetras, they can be skittish, and stress from sudden changes or aggression can lead to health issues. It's important to keep the environment calm and provide plenty of cover.