Croaking Tetra

Mimagoniates microlepis, the Croaking Tetra, is a remarkable small characin from Brazil's Atlantic coastal rivers. It is one of the few fish capable of producing audible sounds — males croak during courtship displays. The species exhibits internal insemination, a rare trait in characins. It displays a subtle blue-green iridescent sheen and is best kept in a species-specific or quiet biotope aquarium.

Water: 22–27°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft and acidic water preferred. Tank: 60 L minimum; heavily planted with dense vegetation to replicate Atlantic forest streams. Feeding: Small live and frozen invertebrates preferred; will accept quality micro-pellets. Behaviour: Peaceful and shy; keep in groups of 6+; males actively court females with croaking. Compatibility: Best in a species tank or with other very small, quiet soft-water fish.