Ocellifer Tetra

Hemigrammus ocellifer, the Head-and-Tail Light Tetra, is a classic and enduringly popular aquarium species. Its transparent body is marked at each end by a distinctive gold-and-black spot — one above the eye and one at the caudal peduncle — that glow like lanterns in low-light planted aquariums, inspiring the evocative common name.

This species is robust, adaptable, and peaceful, suitable for a wide range of community aquariums. It is one of the hardier small tetras and tolerates a broader range of water conditions than blackwater specialists. In good groups of eight or more it schools actively through the mid-water column, the golden tail spots creating a distinctive sparkling pattern of light.

Feeding is entirely straightforward: quality flake, micro-pellets, and any small frozen foods are all accepted readily. It is an excellent choice for beginners seeking a small, characterful, community-compatible schooling fish.