Intermedia Moenkhausia

Moenkhausia intermedia is one of the most widespread members of its genus, distributed across the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Its silver body and lightly pigmented fins give it an unassuming but neat appearance well suited to both background schooling roles and dither fish duties alongside shy cichlids or other species that benefit from the security of active midwater fish. Highly adaptable in terms of water chemistry, it acclimates readily to a range of aquarium conditions. Groups of eight or more move in tight, energetic formations. It is one of the most reliably available Moenkhausia species and a solid choice for aquarists at all experience levels.

Water: pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 23–28 °C; soft to moderately hard. Very tolerant of varied water conditions. Tank: 80 L minimum; open swimming areas with peripheral planting. Feeding: Omnivore; accepts all standard aquarium foods; flake, pellets, frozen, and live foods. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; spawns readily in soft neutral water. Easy to breed. Compatibility: Peaceful; compatible with a very wide range of community species.