Glolite Tetra 3.5cm

Glolite Tetra

An extremely under-rated tetra but great tetra is the Glolite Tetra. This species is very commonly available and is a simple and small tetra to add to a South American biotope of the planted aquarium to add some life and volume. Remaining at a fairly small size the glolite tetra has a fairly plain silver body with an iridescent stomach but where this fish really shines is the laser bolt-like orange stripe that it has across its body.

In good aquarium lighting this fish really stands out and in large schools can be simply stunning. For those that are looking for a natural and non-flashy fish, the glolite tetra is the way to go. They are also extremely hardy and easy to take care of due to their small size and peaceful nature which makes them a great option for beginner aquarists. 4cm max they make for great fish in a wide range of aquarium settings.

Because of their community aquarium tolerance, they are also evidently extremely peaceful fish but feel best when kept in schools of 6 as a minimum but ideally, 10 or more would be perfect. breeding these fish in captivity is an extremely difficult process due to the Glolite tetra not having any distinguishable features between males and females. 

Tank Recommendations for your Glolite Tetra

Being a very small and relatively easy to care for fish the Glolite tetra can be kept in nano aquariums with the minimum being a 37-liter aquarium (10 gallons).  A sand or gravel substrate would be fine for these fish as well as a lot of plant growth which not only makes them contrast really well but also makes them more comfortable in the aquarium to swim out in the open. Glolite tetras are soft water fish meaning they require a low PH. They can be kept in PH as low as 6 and will even look stunning in a blackwater aquarium setting with warm lighting which will really accentuate their orange stripe.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Glolite tetra is an extremely peaceful fish that displays no aggression at all. They may actually be quite shy which is why it is recommended to keep them in relatively large schools. 

Usually Compatible

Angelfish, neon tetras, Apistogramma, rams, Corydoras, and a range of dwarf/nano peaceful fish.  

Sometimes Compatible

Glolite tetra can be a relatively slow fish so any fin nipping species of fish that may outcompete them for food such as guppies, tiger barbs, or Roseline sharks

Rarely Compatible

Large and aggressive species such as rainbow sharks, Raphael catfish, larger mouthed community fish may prey on the tetras and large cichlids.

Feeding your Glolite tetra

Glolite tetras are very easy to fish to feed. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Just like any fish though they should be fed a varied diet with a mix of different foods. The ideal diet would be a good quality micro slow sinking pellet or crushed flake, supplemented with frozen bloodworms or black worms or even live foods like baby brine shrimp or micro worms.