Paragoniates Tetra

Paragoniates alburnus is a large, streamlined characin distributed across the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Its elongated body is almost entirely translucent silver with highly reflective scales and a faint lateral stripe, giving it a pristine, glass-like quality. Highly active and fast-swimming, it requires spacious aquariums of 200 L or more to school naturally and express normal behavior. It is peaceful despite its size, making it a suitable companion for large South American fish including medium cichlids, large tetras, and armored catfish. Rare in the trade, it appeals to hobbyists building large biotope displays.

Water: pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 23–28 °C; soft to moderately hard. Tank: 200 L minimum; large open swimming space essential. Strong filtration and water movement. Feeding: Omnivore; pellets, large flake, frozen foods including bloodworm and brine shrimp. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; limited captive breeding data. Large breeding tank required. Compatibility: Peaceful; best with medium to large South American community fish.