Albino Congo Tetra

 

Albino Congo Tetra Care Guide (Phenacogrammus interruptus Albino)

 

 

Appearance and Sexual Differences

 

The Albino Congo Tetra is distinct for its lack of dark pigment, which gives it a unique look.

• Body: Pale, white/pink body with iridescent, pearly scales and red albino eyes.
• Male Fins: Males retain the species’ elegant, exaggerated finnage, featuring long, flowing dorsal fins and a central extension in the caudal (tail) fin.
• Females: Are smaller, rounder, and have shorter, simpler fins.
• Behavior: They are powerful, active swimmers that spend most of their time in the middle to upper water column.

 

Tank Requirements and Water Parameters

 

Due to their adult size and active swimming, they require a larger tank than most common tetras.

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons is required for a small group (6-8 fish). A long tank (36–48 inches) is ideal.
• Schooling: Keep them in groups of at least 6–8 individuals. A large school is necessary to maintain their confidence and well-being.
• Temperature: Tropical range: 72°–82° F (22°–28° C).
• pH Level: Adaptable to a wide range: 6.0 to 7.5. They are hardy and tolerate a variety of water chemistries as long as it is stable.
• Aquascape: Provide a balance of open swimming space and planted/shaded areas created by driftwood, rocks, and tall plants. They appreciate subdued lighting, which can be achieved with floating plants.

 

Diet and Feeding

 

The Albino Congo Tetra is an enthusiastic, omnivorous feeder.

• Staple Diet: High-quality flake foods, tropical pellets, and granules.
• Supplementation: A varied diet including meaty foods is crucial for their long-term health: Bloodworms, Brine Shrimp, and Daphnia (frozen or live). They may also nibble on soft-leaved plants.
• Feeding Tip: They are voracious and fast eaters. Ensure that slower tank mates get their share of food.

 

Compatibility

 

• Good Tank Mates: Other robust, peaceful, and active fish of similar size, such as larger Rasboras, Rainbowfish, peaceful Barbs, Corydoras catfish, and small to medium Dwarf Cichlids.
• Avoid: They should not be kept with tiny, delicate fish that could be outcompeted for food, nor should they be housed with aggressive, territorial fish.