Ornate Dwarf Tetra (Trochilocharax)

Trochilocharax ornatus is widely considered one of the most ornate nano characins in the aquarium hobby. Males display iridescent green-blue flanks, red fin accents, and a bold black lateral stripe — a combination of colors rarely seen in a fish barely 2.5 cm long. Native to clear, soft, warm forest streams in Ecuador and Peru, it demands pristine water quality, very low mineral content, and the gentlest possible filtration. Best maintained in a dedicated species aquarium or with other minute, gentle species. It is not recommended for beginners, but its extraordinary beauty rewards the patience of experienced hobbyists.

Water: Very soft, acidic; pH 5.0–6.5, temperature 25–29 °C. RO water strongly recommended. Zero tolerance for ammonia or nitrite. Tank: 20 L species setup; dense fine planting, sponge filtration only, Indian almond leaves, no current. Feeding: Micropredator; baby brine shrimp nauplii, micro-worms, infusoria, and micro-pellets. Breeding: Egg-scatterer among fine plants; fry require infusoria for first week. Challenging. Compatibility: Species tank only or with similarly tiny peaceful nano fish and shrimp.