Sailfin Tetra

Iguanodectes spilurus is a slender, torpedo-shaped characin found in clear and blackwater tributaries throughout the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Its body is elongated compared to typical tetras, silver-grey with a fine dark lateral stripe, and the flanks carry a subtle iridescent blue-green sheen that is especially visible under angled lighting.

This species is a strong swimmer that requires a spacious aquarium with good water movement and open swimming lanes. In groups of eight or more it schools tightly and moves dynamically across the full length of the tank. It is completely peaceful and works well in community setups with robust, similarly active species.

Feeding is undemanding: flake, pellets, and frozen foods are all accepted eagerly. The high activity level means it benefits from multiple small feedings per day rather than one large meal.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft to medium (GH 2–15, KH 1–7). Tank: 120 L minimum; long tank with open swimming space and moderate to strong current. Feeding: Quality flake, pellets, frozen brine shrimp, bloodworm, and daphnia; feed multiple times daily. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; rarely bred in captivity; requires spacious well-conditioned setup. Compatibility: Peaceful with all robust community fish; avoid slow, sedentary, or very small species.