Yellowtail Congo Tetra 3.5cm

Yellowtail Congo Tetra
 

The Yellowtail Congo Tetra is a super underrated and simplistic fish to add to a planted or community aquarium. These peaceful fish are often overshadowed by regular gong tetras however this species reaches around 8cm, is active, and has a vivid yellow tail. Originating from the rivers of the Democratic Republic of Congo, this species is a testament to the beauty and diversity of African tetras. These fish will make a stunning and unique addition even in a biotope setting.

Caring for Yellowtail Congo Tetras is incredible, as they are relatively hardy fish that adapt well to life in a well-maintained aquarium. The body colour of these fish is almost exclusive to this species with a blend of translucent blues, whites, yellows, and creamy undertones. Depending on the lighting and angle all these colours show off in their respectful manner but can also appear as one cohesive blend. The translucent nature of this fish also means you can see the faint bone structure and the metallic stomach area. The fins all carry a very light-yellow hue with white rims which changes completely at the tail since this is the true spectacle of this fish. The bright yellow tail with black lines and two streamers mid-way gives this a majestic look.

Sexing Yellowtail Congo Tetras can be somewhat challenging but there are a few key differences to look for. Males are typically more vibrant in colour with a more pronounced iridescence and have longer, more elaborate finnage, including a more distinct yellow and black pattern on their tail fins. Females, on the other hand, are generally plainer, with less pronounced coloration and shorter fins. They may also have a rounder body shape, especially when gravid. These fish spawn like any other tetra by scattering eggs into the aquarium, they exhibit no parental care so it is best to breed them in a dedicated breeding system.

Tank Recommendations for your Yellowtail Congo Tetra

Being a larger-body tetra and incredibly active fish, the yellowtail Congo tetra needs an aquarium with a minimum volume of 100 litres. They are however an easy to care for species. 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 well but also makes them more comfortable in the aquarium to swim out in the open. These Congo tetras are softwater fish meaning they require a low PH. They can be kept in PH as low as 6 and will even look stunning in a black water aquarium setting with warm lighting which will accentuate their yellow tail.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Yellow Tail Congo tetra is an extremely peaceful fish that displays little to no aggression at all to other species. Males may often have small spars with each other which is just them storing out a hierarchy however this is harmless.

Usually Compatible

Angelfish, apistogramma, rams, Corydoras, Severums, Uaru, and largely peaceful cichlids.

Sometimes Compatible

Due to their flowing fins, any fin-nipping species should be avoided, and semi-aggressive species such as convict cichlids, kribensis cichlids, and similar medium-sized cichlids.

Rarely Compatible

Large and aggressive species such as Oscars, jaguar cichlids, and similar species may predate the Congo tetra.

Feeding your Yellowtail Congo Tetra

Yellowtail Congo tetras are easy fish to feed. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. 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 floating or slow-sinking pellet or flake, supplemented with frozen bloodworms, black worms, or even live foods like baby brine shrimp or microworms.