🐟 A Complete Guide to Congo Tetra Care (Phenacogrammus interruptus)

The Congo Tetra is a dazzling freshwater schooling fish from the Congo River Basin in Central Africa. Known for its iridescent scales, flowing fins, and peaceful demeanor, it’s a favorite centerpiece fish for community tanks. Here’s everything you need to know to keep them healthy and thriving.

📏 Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: 30–40+ gallons (a group of 6+ is ideal)
• Setup: Open swimming space with dense planting around edges
• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
• Décor: Driftwood, rocks, and floating plants for shade
• Lighting: Moderate to bright (brings out colors)

🌡️ Water Parameters

• Temperature: 73–82°F (23–28°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic preferred)
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
• Filtration: Gentle flow and strong biological filtration

🥗 Diet

Congo Tetras are omnivores:

• Quality flakes or micro-pellets
• Frozen/live foods: brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms
• Occasional veggie-based foods (spirulina flakes, blanched spinach)

A varied diet enhances their iridescence.

🐠 Behavior & Tank Mates

• Peaceful, schooling fish that thrive in groups of 6+
• Perfect with other peaceful community fish:
• Rainbowfish, Corydoras, Rasboras, Angelfish, Gouramis
• Avoid large, aggressive cichlids or fin-nippers

🌱 Aquascaping Tips

• Plant-dense background for cover, open center for schooling
• Driftwood and rocks mimic their natural habitat
• Floating plants provide shade and reduce stress

🍼 Breeding Congo Tetras

Breeding can be challenging but rewarding:

• Use a separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water.
• Condition with live foods.
• Add fine-leaved plants or spawning mops.
• Remove adults after spawning—eggs hatch in ~6 days.
• Feed fry with infusoria, then baby brine shrimp.

✅ Quick Care Summary