Gold Tetra

Hemigrammus rodwayi, the Gold Tetra, is native to the Guiana Shield drainages of Guyana, Suriname, and adjacent Brazil. Its extraordinary gold iridescence is not a product of selective breeding but a natural phenomenon: external guanine crystals deposited in the skin create a gold-dust effect that makes the fish appear as if it has been lightly gilded. Healthy specimens in good light are genuinely spectacular.

This species is moderately hardy and adapts well to a range of water conditions from soft and acidic to neutral and medium-hard. It is peaceful, schools attractively in groups of eight or more, and is an excellent community fish. Its unusual colouration makes it a natural focal point in any planted tank.

Feeding with quality flake, micro-pellets, and regular frozen invertebrates maintains health and the vivid gold iridescence. This is a highly recommended species for aquarists who want something visually dramatic without extreme care requirements.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 5.5–7.5, soft to medium (GH 3–15, KH 1–8). Tank: 60 L minimum; planted community tank; brighter lighting enhances gold iridescence. Feeding: Quality flake, micro-pellets, frozen brine shrimp, bloodworm, and daphnia. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; condition with live foods; dense fine plants as spawning substrate. Compatibility: Excellent peaceful community fish with all similarly sized species.