Glass Tetra (Moenkhausia oligolepis)

Fish in the family Characidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Glass Tetra

Quick facts

Scientific nameMoenkhausia oligolepis
FamilyCharacidae
Also known asScale-eye Tetra, Oligolepis Tetra
Care levelEasy
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size4 in
Minimum tank size30 gallons
Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.0-8.0, GH 4-25 dGH

Appearance

Silvery body with prominent dark-edged scales giving a netted look and a red-and-gold upper eye plus a black caudal spot.

Difficulty and care for the Glass Tetra

Easy

Origin and habitat

Widespread northern South America (Amazon, Guianas)

Keeper notes

Large, robust tetra that nips fins, grazes plants, and may eat small fish and shrimp; keep 6+ with sturdy tankmates.

Log Glass Tetra in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Glass Tetra alongside everything else in your reef.