Hemigrammus pulcher, also known as the pretty tetra, garnet tetra or black wedge tetra, is a semi-popular aquarium species. In the wild, the species is found near Iquitos in the Peruvian Amazon, and probably also in Brazil and Colombia.

Physical appearance

The H. pulcher has a pale-lemon background color with a black area on the flanks, up to the caudal peduncle. Under subdued lighting, the H. pulcher 's body appears iridescent. It grows up to 4 cm. Males can be distinguished from females through the shape of the swim bladder, which can be seen through the fish's semi-transparent body. In males, the swim bladder is pointed, while in females, the swim bladder is rounded.

In captivity

Aquarists keep this fish in water with temperatures ranging from 23 to 27 C that is soft (50–100 mg/L) and acidic (pH 6.0). The fish is reported to be peaceful and social. Aquarists recommend that it be fed prepared foods and small live foods. Breeding is difficult, as parents must be prevented from eating their own eggs. Eggs usually hatch within 20–24 hours. The H. pulcher does best in groups of 6 or more.