Head and Tail Light Tetra (Hemigrammus ocellifer)

Fish in the family Characidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Head and Tail Light Tetra

Quick facts

Scientific nameHemigrammus ocellifer
FamilyCharacidae
Also known asBeacon Tetra, Head-and-Taillight Tetra
Care levelEasy
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietomnivore
Adult size1.8 in
Minimum tank size15 gallons
Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 2-18 dGH

Appearance

Silvery body with glowing golden-red spots behind the eye ('headlight') and at the base of the tail ('taillight').

Difficulty and care for the Head and Tail Light Tetra

Easy

Origin and habitat

Guyana, Brazil, Peru (Amazon basin)

Keeper notes

Peaceful, undemanding community schooler safe with shrimp and small tankmates.

Log Head and Tail Light 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 Head and Tail Light Tetra alongside everything else in your reef.