Casiquiare Tetra

Microschemobrycon casiquiare comes from the unique Casiquiare canal system, the natural waterway linking the Orinoco and Amazon drainages. This remarkable biogeographic origin makes it of great scientific interest as well as hobbyist appeal. The fish itself is tiny and largely transparent with delicate, finely-pigmented fins and a faint lateral marking.

Like other fish from this system, it requires very soft, acidic blackwater conditions. In the aquarium it is a gentle, unobtrusive species that disappears against dark substrate but catches the light attractively when a school moves together. Its extremely peaceful nature makes it suitable only for calm, small-species tank mates.

Feeding must use appropriately sized micro-foods. Larger flake or pellets will be ignored. Regular water quality monitoring and maintenance of very soft, warm, acidic conditions are essential to long-term success.

Water: 25–29°C, pH 4.5–6.5, very soft (GH 0–5, KH 0–2); tannins recommended. Tank: 40 L minimum; blackwater species tank; botanicals, zero-to-minimal flow, dim lighting. Feeding: Micro-pellets, infusoria, baby brine shrimp nauplii, and finest dried foods. Breeding: Largely undocumented; presumed egg-scatterer in very soft acidic conditions. Compatibility: Only with other tiny, peaceful soft-water species; avoid anything predatory.