Hyphessobrycon negodagua
Wild caught origin Exclusive
- Brazil, Nego D'Agua, Rio Paraguaçú
- Adult size : 2 ¼" (~6 cm)
- Rarity : Very rare
| Qty (Stock) | Size | Sex | Unit price (Tax included) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 ¼" | - | 18$ 6 pour 98$ |
IMPORTANT
Keeping fish in an aquarium requires an ethical and responsible approach that prioritizes animal welfare. Purchasing fish for an aquarium should never be an impulsive decision. It is essential to understand the specific needs of each species, including water quality, aquarium size, behavior, and diet. Only fish with similar water quality requirements should be kept together in the same aquarium.
A Little More Information...
Hyphessobrycon negodagua is a small Brazilian characid of great interest to aquarists who appreciate rare and geographically specialized species. Described from the Rio Paraguaçu basin in Bahia, this tetra is associated with soft waters where streamside vegetation creates shaded and sheltered areas. Its rarity in the aquarium trade makes it a sought-after fish, especially when offered as a wild-collected specimen. Successful care depends on stable water, good maintenance and a sufficiently large group to encourage natural behavior. Hyphessobrycon negodagua is available exclusively from Ton.Fish in Canada.
General species description
Hyphessobrycon negodagua is a small freshwater fish in the family Characidae, native to northeastern Brazil. It belongs to the large genus Hyphessobrycon, which includes many generally peaceful and schooling South American tetras. The species is especially notable for its highly restricted distribution in the Rio Paraguaçu basin and its biogeographical importance. Like other small characids, it should be kept in a group, in a mature aquarium with open swimming space and more sheltered areas. Its very rare status in the hobby calls for careful handling, gradual acclimation and consistent water quality. Wild-collected specimens may also require an adjustment period before readily accepting prepared foods.
Geographical origin and biotope
This species is endemic to Brazil, in the state of Bahia, where it is associated with the Rio Paraguaçu. Its natural range lies within the Chapada Diamantina region and the transition landscapes of inland Bahia. The habitat includes small to medium-sized streams with vegetated banks, shaded sections and a combination of quiet areas and moderate flow. The substrate may include sand, fine gravel, leaf litter and plant debris, depending on the location. In an aquarium, subdued lighting, roots, plants and soft, slightly acidic to neutral water better reproduce the general character of this environment than a bare, brightly lit layout.
Precise location and local name
The main geographical reference for Hyphessobrycon negodagua is the Rio Paraguaçu in the state of Bahia, Brazil. The specific name negodagua refers to the Portuguese term Nego-d’Água, a figure from Brazilian aquatic folklore associated with rivers. This name is important for understanding the cultural identity connected with the fish and its region of origin. In the aquarium trade, the species may be presented as a Rio Paraguaçu tetra or as a Nego-d’Água tetra. Because it remains extremely uncommon in the trade, it does not have a universally established common name like more familiar tetras. Its restricted origin should be retained in identification and sales records.
Appearance and physical characteristics
Hyphessobrycon negodagua has the typical shape of a small tetra: a laterally compressed body, transparent to slightly colored fins and active swimming in open water. Coloration may vary with mood, age, sex and lighting conditions. In wild specimens, dark water, plants and a natural substrate generally enhance visual contrast and color. Identification should rely on the full set of morphological features and the known locality rather than on coloration alone in a store aquarium. Its small size and slender body make it suitable for a peaceful Amazonian-style community aquarium with gentle filtration and open swimming areas. Adult males may appear slimmer, while gravid females generally show a fuller abdomen.
General diet
The diet of Hyphessobrycon negodagua can be approached as that of a small opportunistic characid: it accepts small meaty foods and quality dry foods suited to its mouth. A varied diet of micro-pellets, finely crushed flakes, brine shrimp and daphnia supports good condition. Wild-collected specimens may initially prefer small prey items, particularly after transport. Feed small portions once or twice daily and remove leftovers to protect water quality. A varied diet also helps maintain coloration and activity within the school. Frozen or live foods should be clean and obtained from a reliable source, especially when maintaining a fish as rare as this one.
Essential data
- River of origin: Rio Paraguaçu
- Local name used: Nego-d’Água
- Origin of the scientific name: The genus Hyphessobrycon and the epithet negodagua
- Full-name etymology: Hyphessobrycon is a genus name of Greek origin; negodagua refers to the Nego-d’Água, a figure in Brazilian river folklore
- Common or vernacular names: Nego-d’Água tetra; Rio Paraguaçu tetra
- Family: Characidae
- Name pronunciation: if ess oh BRY kon - neh goh DAH gwah
- Maximum adult size: small species, approximately 3 cm
- Water temperature and pH: 24 to 28 °C; approximately pH 5.5 to 7.0 in aquaria
- Stream appearance and surrounding vegetation: vegetated streams with shaded sections and moderate-flow areas
- Typical tankmates: peaceful small characids of similar size; calm small South American fish; non-predatory freshwater invertebrates
- Temperament and behavior: peaceful, schooling and active in open water; keep in a group
- Water depth: shallow to intermediate stream sections
- Sexual dimorphism: females are generally rounder; males are often more slender
- Substrate and flow: sand, fine gravel and plant debris; low to moderate flow
- Discovery: described during a twenty-first-century taxonomic study of characids from the Rio Paraguaçu basin
- Wild-collected species: yes; wild specimens
- Availability: exclusive to Ton.Fish in Canada
- Rarity: very rare
For greater success
Success with Hyphessobrycon negodagua depends on a mature aquarium, soft well-maintained water and a sufficiently large group to reduce shyness. Use gentle filtration, moderate lighting and a layout with plants, roots and open areas. Slow acclimation is especially important for wild-collected fish. Because this is a very rare species, avoid boisterous tankmates, unstable parameters and excessive feeding. Aquarium conservation is most valuable when each specimen is maintained for the long term, in good health and under conditions that respect its origin in the Rio Paraguaçu.
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