NOTE: This care guide was copied from the care guide I wrote on aqcenter.net (username onidrase). This is why the format is different. It was still written by me.

COMMON NAME Red Eye Tetra, Lamp Eye Tetra

SCIENTIFIC NAME Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae

FAMILY Characidae

ORIGIN South America

MAXIMUM SIZE 3"

TEMPERATURE RANGE 74-78F, 23-26C

CARE Undemanding, hardy species of schooling fish. Best kept in groups of at least 6. They are rather shy as a species, so the more the merrier. Best kept with plenty of plants to provide them with cover, and make them feel more comfortable within the aquarium. Prefer soft, acidic water, but will thrive in most water conditions. a 30" long tank should be provided for a significant group of these fish.

FEEDING Not a picky eater, they'll readily accept any types of flake or pellet food.

SEXING Females are more wide bodied than the males.

OTHER Rather slow growing, but can get pretty big. They school with one another great, and do best in large numbers. They are sometimes given the reputation for being fin nippers, but mine have never bothered any other fish. Red eye tetras can be marked as somewhat inactive, but can sometimes be seen sprinting around the tank with one another.