Red Widow tetra | Single

Red Widow Glow Tetra (Hemigrammus erythrozonus var.), a selectively bred variant of the Glowlight Tetra, is a striking addition to any freshwater aquarium. Its vibrant red body with an iridescent glow makes it a standout choice for aquarists seeking colorful and lively fish for their tank. Known for their peaceful nature and schooling behavior, these tetras are ideal for community setups.
Key Characteristics of Red Widow Glow Tetra:
Size: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm).
Color: Bright red, semi-transparent body with a glowing stripe running horizontally along the flanks.
Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care.
Behavior: Peaceful and active, best kept in groups.
Activity Level: Active swimmers that prefer the mid-levels of the tank.
Water Parameters for Red Widow Glow Tetra:
Temperature: 23–27°C (73–81°F).
pH: 5.5–7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.
Hardness: 4–12 dGH.
Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons for a small group, with larger tanks recommended for larger schools.
Tank Setup:
Substrate: Dark substrate to contrast and enhance their glowing colors.
Plants: Use live plants like Java moss, Amazon swords, or Cryptocoryne to provide hiding spots and create a natural habitat.
Lighting: Moderate to subdued lighting brings out their glowing appearance.
Water Flow: Gentle flow to mimic their natural slow-moving water habitats.
Decor: Add driftwood and smooth rocks for variety and additional hiding places.
Diet:
Red Widow Glow Tetras are omnivorous and enjoy a varied diet:
Staple Foods: High-quality micro-pellets or flakes designed for small tropical fish.
Protein Sources: Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or micro-worms.
Vegetable Matter: Spirulina-based foods or finely chopped blanched vegetables.
Behavior and Tankmates:
Behavior: Peaceful and schooling, they feel secure in groups of 6 or more.
Tankmates:
Compatible Species: Other peaceful fish like guppies, rasboras, Corydoras, and dwarf gouramis.
Avoid: Aggressive or larger predatory fish that may intimidate or prey on them.
Breeding Red Widow Glow Tetra:
Breeding these tetras is similar to breeding standard Glowlight Tetras:
Breeding Tank: Use a separate tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops.
Conditioning: Feed adults high-quality live or frozen foods to encourage spawning.
Spawning Process: Males court females, and eggs are scattered among plants.
Egg Care: Remove adults after spawning, as they may eat the eggs.
Fry Care: Feed fry infusoria or liquid fry food, transitioning to finely crushed flakes as they grow.
Care Tips:
Schooling Needs: Always keep them in groups to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviors.
Tank Maintenance: Perform regular water changes to maintain pristine water quality.
Compatibility: Avoid housing them with fin-nipping or aggressive fish.
Why Choose Red Widow Glow Tetra?
Stunning Colors: Their bright red, glowing appearance adds a vibrant splash of color.
Hardy Nature: Adaptable and resilient, suitable for beginners.
Community-Friendly: Peaceful and compatible with many tankmates.
Active Schooling: Their lively behavior adds energy and activity to the aquarium.
Conclusion:
Red Widow Glow Tetras are an eye-catching and easy-to-care-for species that bring life and vibrancy to freshwater tanks. Their peaceful temperament, dazzling appearance, and schooling habits make them an excellent choice for aquarists of all levels. Provide them with the right environment, and they’ll thrive while illuminating your aquarium with their radiant glow.