Frankei Tetra - Hyphessobrycon frankei : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Renowned for their tranquil and dynamic demeanour, Frankei Tetras (Hyphessobrycon frankei) are a delightful addition to soft-water community aquariums. However, due to their somewhat delicate nature and sensitivity to fluctuations in water conditions, they may not be the most suitable choice for beginner aquarists. To ensure their well-being and create a sense of security, it is advisable to maintain Frankei Tetras in groups of at least eight, alongside other schooling fish, thereby fostering a more natural and visually appealing aquarium environment.
While occasional minor squabbles may occur among the Tetras within the group, the presence of ample visual barriers and hiding spots enables them to retreat if necessary, mitigating any potential harm. When selecting tankmates, it is crucial to consider species of similar size and peaceful temperament. Suitable companions may include other small Tetras, Hatchetfish, Pencilfish, non-predatory small to medium-sized Cichlids, Corydoras Catfish, and small Loaches. However, due to their preference for softer water conditions, it is essential that tankmates also thrive under such circumstances. As a precaution, it is advisable to avoid pairing them with slow-moving, long-finned fish or larger species that may perceive them as prey.
Easily distinguishable by their iridescent silver bodies and distinct white bands running the length of their body, Frankei Tetras boast a unique and striking appearance. Further adding to their allure, these Tetras display a triangular black spot at the base of their caudal fin, accented by whitish streaks, accompanied by red adipose and rayed fins.
Frankei Tetra Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Determining the sex of Frankei Tetras can pose certain challenges. Nonetheless, sexually mature females typically exhibit more rounded body contours and tend to attain a slightly larger size compared to their male counterparts.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon frankei |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1997 |
| Other Names | Ucayali Tetra |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Hyphessobrycon |
| Origins | Peru |
| Max Size | 4.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | 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 | 3.5 - 5.0 |
| GH | 1 - 5 |
| ℉ | 73 - 81 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
Frankei Tetras are native to the Ucayali River drainage in Peru, situated within the South American region. Within their natural habitat, these Tetras can be found in minor tributaries and forest streams adorned with intricate root systems, dense vegetation, and a profusion of leaf litter. During periods of elevated water levels, it is believed that they inhabit flooded forests.
Their native waters are characterized by softness and acidity, with a distinctive brownish hue resulting from the presence of tannins released by the decomposing leaves and wood. Such environmental conditions contribute to the distinctive and unique ecological niche that Frankei Tetras have adapted to in their indigenous range.
Breeding
Frankei Tetras present a relatively straightforward breeding process, albeit necessitating the establishment of a separate breeding tank to maximize fry yield. The breeding tank should be dimly lit and furnished with bundles of fine-leaved plants, such as Java Moss, or alternative options like Spawning Mops, plastic grass-like matting, or a layer of glass marbles, providing suitable surfaces for the fish to deposit their adhesive eggs.
To ensure optimal conditions for successful spawning, the water in the breeding tank should maintain a slightly acidic to neutral pH, with a marginally higher temperature compared to the community aquarium. It is beneficial to incorporate an air-powered sponge filter or air stone in the tank to facilitate water movement and oxygenation.
Breeding Frankei Tetras can be achieved by either spawning them in a group, ideally with half a dozen individuals of each sex, or in pairs. In the latter case, conditioning the male and female groups separately in separate tanks with a nutritious diet of live and frozen foods is recommended. Once the females display the visible fullness of eggs and the males exhibit their most vibrant colours, selecting the healthiest female and best-coloured male and placing them into the breeding tank will likely lead to successful spawning the following morning.
Promptly removing the adults from the breeding tank after spawning is crucial, as they may consume the eggs if given the opportunity. The eggs typically hatch within 24 to 36 hours, with the fry becoming free-swimming approximately 3 to 4 days later. For the initial feeding stages, providing infusoria-type foods is preferable until the fry is large enough to accept baby brine shrimp and microworms. As the eggs and fry are sensitive to light during this stage, maintaining dim or off-lighting conditions in the tank is advised.
Diet & Feeding
In a home aquarium setting, Frankei Tetras readily accept a diverse array of high-quality dried foods, including granules, flakes, and sinking pellets. These modern food formulations have been carefully crafted to encompass all essential nutritional requirements, thereby supporting the overall health and dietary needs of the fish.
To further enhance the well-being of the Tetras, supplementary food items such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried options, such as mini bloodworms, daphnia, and tubifex, may be provided once or twice a week. While not obligatory, incorporating these supplementary foodstuffs can impart additional health benefits to the fish.
In their natural habitat, Frankei Tetras exhibit an omnivorous dietary preference, incorporating certain vegetable matter into their feeding habits. Most contemporary fish foods are formulated to account for this aspect and include suitable plant-based components. However, supplementing the fish's diet with blanched vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini, remains a beneficial practice.
Maintaining a balanced feeding regimen is of utmost importance to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality. Any uneaten food should be promptly removed the following day to uphold the overall health and well-being of the Tetras in the aquarium.
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