Mucipu Tetra

Creagrutus mucipu is a stream-dwelling characin from the Andean foothill tributaries of Venezuela and Colombia, adapted to the faster, cooler, and more oxygenated waters characteristic of its elevated homeland. The body is slender and fusiform, silver with a warm golden lateral stripe, and built for life in current.

In the aquarium this species appreciates moderate to strong water movement, good oxygenation, and well-structured biotope with smooth stones and sand substrate. Groups of six or more school actively and explore all levels of the water column. It is not a difficult fish once its preference for well-oxygenated, slightly cooler water is accommodated.

Feeding is flexible: quality flake, pellets, and frozen invertebrates are all accepted. A fast-water Venezuelan biotope with appropriately schooling tank mates such as Corydoras or other stream tetras suits it well.

Water: 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to medium (GH 3–15, KH 2–8); well-oxygenated with moderate flow. Tank: 80 L minimum; stream biotope with moderate current, smooth stones, and sandy substrate. Feeding: Quality flake, pellets, frozen brine shrimp, bloodworm, and daphnia. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; rarely bred; prefers well-oxygenated cooler water for conditioning. Compatibility: Peaceful with other active stream-dwelling species; avoid very slow or delicate fish.