Head and Tail Light Tetra
The Head and Tail Light Tetra is a peaceful freshwater schooling fish known for the bright reflective markings near its eye and tail. These glowing “light” spots give the fish its common name and make it a beautiful addition to planted aquariums and community tanks.
Hardy, active, and beginner-friendly, Head and Tail Light Tetras do best in groups of six or more. Their calm temperament and classic tetra shape make them a great choice for peaceful community aquariums with other small to medium freshwater fish.
Live Fish Notice: Live fish and livestock are available for in-store purchase or local pickup only at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming. We are not shipping live fish at this time.
Key Features
- Peaceful freshwater schooling fish
- Bright reflective markings near the head and tail
- Hardy and beginner-friendly tetra
- Great for planted aquariums and community tanks
- Best kept in groups of six or more
- Active midwater swimmer
- Pairs well with other peaceful freshwater fish
Quick Care Guide
- Scientific Name: Hemigrammus ocellifer
- Common Name: Head and Tail Light Tetra
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Adult Size: Up to 2 inches
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
- Temperature: 72–79°F
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Diet: Omnivore
- Swimming Level: Middle
Tank Setup
Head and Tail Light Tetras do best in a well-established aquarium with stable water quality, gentle to moderate water movement, and open swimming space. Live plants, driftwood, and darker substrate can help bring out their reflective markings and create a more natural environment.
Diet & Feeding
Head and Tail Light Tetras are omnivores and are easy to feed. Offer a quality tropical flake, micro pellet, frozen foods, and occasional small treats such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. Feed small portions that they can eat within a few minutes.
Compatible Tankmates
- Other peaceful tetras
- Rasboras
- Guppies
- Platies
- Corydoras catfish
- Small peaceful gouramis
- Otocinclus
- Peaceful community fish of similar size
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Head and Tail Light Tetras beginner friendly?
Yes. Head and Tail Light Tetras are hardy, peaceful, and easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginner freshwater aquariums once the tank is cycled.
How many Head and Tail Light Tetras should I keep together?
They should be kept in groups of at least six. Larger schools often look better and help the fish feel more secure.
Are Head and Tail Light Tetras aggressive?
No. They are peaceful community fish and usually do well with other calm freshwater tankmates.
Do Head and Tail Light Tetras need a planted tank?
They do not require a planted tank, but live plants, driftwood, and shaded areas help create a comfortable environment and make their markings stand out.
What do Head and Tail Light Tetras eat?
They eat tropical flakes, small pellets, frozen foods, and small meaty foods. A varied diet helps support health and coloration.
Shop Head and Tail Light Tetras at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Head and Tail Light Tetras are peaceful, hardy schooling fish with bright reflective markings that add movement and interest to freshwater community aquariums. Shop freshwater fish, live plants, shrimp, aquarium supplies, and more at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
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