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Freshwater fishAlestes Tetra
Alestes Tetra
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The alestes tetra is a great schooling fish for aggressive tanks, as they come from the rough-and-tumble Congo jungle and grow to 5 inches. They are perfect mates for most African and South American cichlids and should be kept in schools of at least four. These fish come in various sizes, as they are wild-caught in the Congo River tributaries.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Brycinus longipinnis |
| Origin | West and Central Africa (Sierra Leone to Congo) |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful but very active |
| Adult Size | Up to 5" |
| Lifespan | 5–10 years |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Water Temperature | 72–80°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Group Size | Does best in a group |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 1¾" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: These are larger, active schooling fish, so give them open swimming space, plants or driftwood along the back and a tight-fitting lid, since they jump.
Feeding: Feed a quality flake or small pellet once or twice a day. They also enjoy frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Tankmates: They do well with other active, similar-size fish such as larger tetras, barbs, rainbowfish, peaceful cichlids, corydoras and plecos. Very small fish may be eaten or bullied.
Good to know: Larger tetras are hardy and long-lived, and a big school makes a striking display.
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