Moenkhausia pittieri, the Diamond Tetra, is endemic to Lake Valencia and its connected drainages in Venezuela, where it inhabits slow to moderately flowing water with vegetation. Its common name is perfectly apt — each scale on the body reflects light independently, creating a full-body sparkle of silver and gold that gives it an almost jeweled appearance under aquarium lighting. This effect is most spectacular under angled or side-lighting in a planted aquarium. Males are particularly impressive, developing tall, flowing dorsal fins and extended anal fins with age, giving mature males a distinctly regal silhouette. Females are more rounded and somewhat less elaborately finned, but share the same brilliant iridescence. The Diamond Tetra is one of the hardier tetras, tolerating a moderate range of water parameters without the sensitivity of some Amazonian species. It thrives in soft to moderately hard water with neutral to slightly acidic pH. A peaceful species, it does not fin-nip and is compatible with virtually all non-predatory community fish. Schools of 8 or more produce the most dramatic visual display and the most natural behavior. The Diamond Tetra is an underrated gem in the fishkeeping hobby, deserving of wider popularity given its beauty and easy care.
