Megalostictus Tetra

Phenacogaster megalostictus is a medium-sized, modestly built characin from the Guiana Shield drainages of Venezuela and Guyana. It is distinguished from most tetras by scattered dark spots on the flanks, giving it a somewhat dappled appearance. The body is silver with a faint golden lateral band, and the fins are hyaline with subtle pigmentation.

This is an underappreciated species in the hobby, rarely imported but genuinely attractive in a large school. It is active, peaceful, and works well in spacious community tanks with other medium-sized characins and catfish. Water conditions should be soft to medium hardness with slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Feeding is uncomplicated: standard flake, pellets, and frozen foods are accepted without difficulty. This is a good species for the intermediate aquarist seeking something unusual but not overly demanding.