Un peu plus d'informations...

Introduction

The Golden Tetra, known scientifically as Hyphessobrycon rodwayi, is a small South American characid valued for its golden coloration and peaceful behavior. Native to the Guianas, it inhabits calm or moderately flowing waters often tinted by tannins from surrounding vegetation. In the aquarium, it should be kept in a shoal, where its colors and natural behavior are displayed more effectively. Soft, clean, slightly acidic water is ideal. This species is collected from the wild and is generally available in the aquarium trade, although it is not considered one of the very rare species.

General species description

Hyphessobrycon rodwayi is a small schooling fish well suited to peaceful community aquariums. Keep it in groups of at least six, preferably more, to encourage natural behavior and reduce nervousness. Its slender body and active swimming style mainly occupy the middle level of the aquarium. Wild specimens may look relatively subdued when first introduced, then develop stronger golden reflections once settled. Stable water quality, subdued lighting and dense planting help this species feel secure. Its availability is generally good, making it a species of low to moderate rarity in the hobby.

Geographical origin and biotope

Countries of reference: Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, with a range reported in northeastern South America. Hyphessobrycon rodwayi inhabits small streams, forest channels and quiet areas associated with coastal lowlands. The biotope often contains soft, brownish, tannin-rich water, with low mineral content and an acidic to neutral pH. Leaf litter, submerged branches and roots provide important shelter. Since this species is offered as a wild-collected fish, gradual acclimation is especially advisable.

Precise location and local name

The range of Hyphessobrycon rodwayi is associated with the coastal basins of the Guianas, including freshwater habitats in Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana. The main vernacular name used in international trade is Golden Tetra. Local names may vary from one region to another, while aquarists generally identify it by its English name. Because the regional range includes a variety of waterways, habitat appearance can differ between collection sites. Quiet margins, shallow channels and forest-influenced waters are typical settings for this small tetra.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body of Hyphessobrycon rodwayi is elongated, laterally compressed and covered with reflective scales. Its color ranges from silvery yellow to metallic gold, often becoming more intense in healthy adult fish. The fins are usually translucent, sometimes showing yellow or orange tones. As in many small characids, coloration may change with mood, lighting and surroundings. Mature females generally have a fuller abdomen, while males are often slimmer. Adult size remains modest, allowing this species to be kept in planted aquariums of reasonable dimensions.

General diet

Hyphessobrycon rodwayi is an omnivore and readily accepts a varied captive diet. It feeds on small aquatic prey, larvae, tiny crustaceans and various plant or organic particles available in its habitat. In the aquarium, offer small portions of fine granules or flakes, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and daphnia. Several small feedings are preferable to one large feeding. A varied diet helps maintain the golden coloration, body condition and energy of the shoal.

Essential data

• Native river name: Coastal basins of the Guianas
• Local name used: Golden Tetra
• Origin of the scientific name: Greek generic name and a specific name dedicated to Rodway
• Full-name etymology: Hyphessobrycon refers to a small characid; rodwayi honors Rodway
• Common/vernacular names: Golden Tetra, Gold Tetra
• Family: Characidae
• Subfamily: Stethaprioninae
• Name pronunciation: if-ess-oh-BRY-kon rod-WAY-ee
• Discovery: Durbin, 1909
• Maximum adult size: About 4.5 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 23 to 28 °C; pH 5.5 to 7.5
• Stream appearance and surrounding vegetation: Calm to moderately flowing water, often tannin-stained, bordered by forest, roots and submerged vegetation
• Typical tankmates: Paracheirodon axelrodi, Hoplisoma paleatus, Otocinclus affinis, peaceful small characids and adult shrimp
• Temperament and behavior: Peaceful, schooling and active; avoid aggressive or much larger tankmates
• Water depth: Shallow to medium, in quiet areas near the margins
• Sexual dimorphism: Females are generally rounder; males are often more slender
• Bottom structure and current: Sand, mud, leaf litter and submerged wood; slow to moderate flow

In your aquarium

To succeed with Hyphessobrycon rodwayi, use a mature, planted aquarium with a covered top, gentle filtration and regular water changes. Maintain a properly sized shoal, stable temperature and low mineral content. Roots, leaves and shaded areas help wild fish acclimate. Provide fine, varied foods without overfeeding. Calm companions of similar size allow its schooling behavior and golden coloration to develop fully.