Red Eye Tetra
Pickup currently unavailable at Napier
Shipping & Returns
All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).
We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.
We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.
Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
- DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
- Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
- Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
- DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
- DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.
Introducing New Fish
Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!
-
Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
-
Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
-
Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
-
Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
Explore related options
You may also like fish food , aquatic plants .
The Red Eye Tetra (Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae) is a hardy, active freshwater schooling fish recognised by its bright red eye and bold black-and-white tail markings. Well suited to community aquariums, Red Eye Tetras are popular for their resilience, constant movement, and compatibility with a wide range of peaceful species.
They are energetic mid-water swimmers that display best behaviour and confidence when kept in groups. Their adaptability makes them suitable for both newer aquarists and experienced keepers, provided adequate swimming space and stable water conditions are maintained.
Physical Characteristics
-
Adult Size: Approximately 6–7 cm (2.5–3 inches)
-
Coloration: Silver body with a vivid red eye; distinct black-and-white pattern on the tail fin
-
Body Shape: Slender, streamlined tetra profile
-
Sexual Dimorphism:
-
Females are slightly larger and deeper-bodied
-
Males are slimmer and often more active
-
Behaviour & Temperament:
-
Temperament: Peaceful
-
Tank Level: Mid-water
-
Schooling Behaviour: Must be kept in groups of 6 or more
-
Activity Level: Active, constant swimmer
Suitable Tank Mates:
-
Other peaceful tetras
-
Rasboras
-
Corydoras catfish
-
Dwarf gouramis
-
Peaceful barbs
Avoid:
-
Aggressive or highly territorial fish
-
Fin-nipping species
-
Large predatory fish
Breeding Information
-
Spawning Type: Egg scatterer
-
Breeding Setup:
-
Fine-leaved plants or spawning mops
-
Soft, slightly acidic water improves success
-
-
Parental Care: None
-
Notes: Adults may eat eggs; removal is required for breeding attempts
Special Considerations
-
Requires space to swim due to high activity level
-
Best colour and schooling behaviour seen in larger groups
-
Hardy but still sensitive to prolonged poor water quality
-
Moderate filtration preferred; avoid excessive current
Aquarium Requirements
-
Minimum Tank Size: 80 litres for a small school
-
Water Temperature: 22–27°C
-
pH Range: 6.0–7.5
-
Water Hardness: 4–15 dGH
-
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
-
Decor: Live plants, driftwood, shaded areas
-
Filtration: Moderate, well-maintained
-
Lighting: Moderate; plants help diffuse brightness
Diet & Feeding
-
Diet Type: Omnivore
-
Recommended Foods:
-
Frozen foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp
-
Occasional live foods for conditioning
-
Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily in small portions
Pet City aims to provide up to date product information including ingredients, size and colour specifications, packaging and product features, as provided to us by the product manufacturer. As product details change from time to time, this information is intended as a guide only and some delay may occur in the updating of our listing. Product images are indicative of the appearance and the product delivered may vary slightly from the product image show. When precise information is important, we recommend that you read the label on the products you purchase or contact the manufacturer of the product.
