Xingu Moenkhausia

Moenkhausia xinguensis is native to the Xingu River basin in Pará, Brazil — one of the most biodiverse river systems in the Amazon. It presents a classic Moenkhausia silhouette with a silver body bearing faintly outlined scales and a prominent dark caudal spot. Unlike many Amazonian tetras, it is adapted to the slightly harder, faster-flowing waters of the Xingu, making it a useful species for aquarists who keep other Xingu endemics and struggle to maintain very soft water. Peaceful and school-oriented, it pairs well with other Xingu species including specific pleco varieties and large cichlids from the same drainage.

Water: pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 24–28 °C; soft to moderately hard. Tolerates moderate water movement. Tank: 80 L minimum; open swimming space, some current, robust plants or rocky décor. Feeding: Omnivore; pellets, flake, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; neutral to slightly acidic water. Moderate breeding difficulty. Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent for Xingu biotope tanks alongside other regional endemics.