Congo Tetra
Phenacogrammus interruptus
Minimum Tank
30 Gallons
Adult Size
3.5 inches
Temperature
73-82°F (23-28°C)
pH Range
6.0-7.5
Lifespan
5 years
School Size
6+ fish
About Congo Tetra
The Congo tetra is a large, magnificently colored schooling fish from the Congo River basin in central Africa. Males are among the most beautiful freshwater fish, with shimmering scales that shift through shades of blue, gold, orange, and green depending on the light angle, complemented by flowing, elongated fin extensions. Females are more subdued in coloring but still attractive with golden-olive tones. Congo tetras are peaceful giants of the tetra world, reaching up to 3.5 inches, and their large, reflective scales create a spectacular light show when a school catches the aquarium lights. They are naturally found in murky, slow-moving tributaries with sandy bottoms and overhanging vegetation.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 30-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 73-82°F (23-28°C)
- • pH: 6.0 - 7.5
- • Category: Tetra
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Congo tetras need a spacious tank of at least 40 gallons to accommodate their active swimming and large school size. Keep them in groups of at least eight, with more females than males to reduce fin-nipping among rival males. They are timid fish that scare easily, so avoid sudden lighting changes and provide cover with floating plants. Congo tetras prefer slightly acidic to neutral water at 75-82°F with moderate flow. They are sensitive to poor water quality, so maintain regular water changes. Feed quality flake food and frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp to enhance their spectacular coloring.
Quick Facts
114L
Min Tank (30gal)
9cm
Adult Size (3.5")
5yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Congo Tetra
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Tank Mates for Congo Tetra
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Otocinclus
Otocinclus sp.
moderate · 10+ gal
Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
moderate · 10+ gal
Julii Corydoras
Corydoras julii
easy · 15+ gal
Pearl Gourami
Trichopodus leerii
easy · 30+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Congo Tetra need?
A Congo Tetra needs a minimum tank size of 30 gallons (114 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 6.
What water parameters does a Congo Tetra need?
Congo Tetra thrive in water between 73-82°F (23-28°C) with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
Are Congo Tetra easy to care for?
Congo Tetra are considered moderate to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do Congo Tetra get and what do they eat?
Congo Tetra reach about 3.5 inches and are omnivores. Congo tetras need a spacious tank of at least 40 gallons to accommodate their active swimming and large school size. Keep them in groups of at least eight, with more females than males to reduce fin-nipping among rival males. They are timid fish that scare easily, so avoid sudden lighting changes and provide cover with floating plants. Congo tetras prefer slightly acidic to neutral water at 75-82°F with moderate flow. They are sensitive to poor water quality, so maintain regular water changes. Feed quality flake food and frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp to enhance their spectacular coloring.