Rummy nose tetra

Rummy Nose Tetra – Freshwater Aquarium Fish Overview

The Rummy Nose Tetra (Hemigrammus bleheri), also known as the Firehead Tetra, is a popular schooling fish admired for its unique red-orange facial coloration and black-and-white striped tail. Peaceful and active, this fish is ideal for community aquariums. Its vibrant colors and graceful swimming behavior make it a favorite among beginners and experienced aquarists alike.

Appearance & Coloration

Rummy Nose Tetras feature a bright red-orange nose and a striking horizontally striped tail. The combination of these colors with a slender, streamlined body makes them visually captivating in planted or community aquariums.

Key physical traits:

Red-orange nose

Black and white striped tail

Slender, compact body

Adult size: 1–1.5 inches (2.5–3.8 cm)

Behavior & Social Habits

The Rummy Nose Tetra is a schooling fish that thrives in groups of six or more. They are peaceful, spending most of their time in the top and middle levels of the aquarium, although they occasionally explore lower areas. Their constant movement adds energy and life to the tank.

Behavior highlights:

Peaceful and active

Schooling behavior

Compatible with small, calm fish

Suitable with larger peaceful invertebrates

Tank Environment & Water Conditions

These fish are adaptable but thrive best in soft, slightly acidic water enriched with leaf litter or tannins. A planted aquarium with driftwood or shaded areas enhances their coloration and natural behavior. Stable water conditions ensure health and longevity.

Recommended tank parameters:

Temperature: 64°–82°F (18°–27.7°C)

pH: 5.5–7.0

KH: 4–8 dKH

Minimum tank size: 10 gallons

Feeding & Diet

The Rummy Nose Tetra is not picky and thrives on a varied diet. Providing high-quality flakes, micro pellets, or frozen/freeze-dried foods helps maintain vibrant coloration and energy levels.

Diet options:

Flake and pellet foods

Frozen or freeze-dried bloodworms

Tubifex

Omnivorous, easy to feed