Penguin Tetra
Thayeria boehlkei
Minimum Tank
20 Gallons
Adult Size
3 inches
Temperature
72-82°F (22-28°C)
pH Range
5.5-7.5
Lifespan
5 years
School Size
6+ fish
About Penguin Tetra
The penguin tetra is a distinctive schooling fish from the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in South America. It gets its name from the bold black stripe that runs diagonally from its midsection down through the lower tail lobe, combined with its characteristic head-up swimming posture that vaguely resembles a penguin's waddle. The body is silvery with a subtle golden sheen. Penguin tetras are active, peaceful fish that swim with a unique oblique posture, tilted slightly head-upward, which sets them apart from other tetra species. Their interesting swimming behavior and moderate size make them an appealing choice for community tanks looking for something a little different from the usual tetra options.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 20-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- • pH: 5.5 - 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
Keep penguin tetras in schools of at least six in a tank of 20 gallons or more. They prefer slightly soft, acidic to neutral water at 72-82°F. Their unique angled swimming posture is normal and not a sign of illness. Provide both open swimming areas and planted retreats. They are peaceful and mix well with other community fish of similar size. Feed quality flakes and pellets supplemented with frozen daphnia and brine shrimp. Penguin tetras are generally hardy and low-maintenance once established. A longer tank with moderate current suits their active swimming style.
Quick Facts
76L
Min Tank (20gal)
8cm
Adult Size (3")
5yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Penguin Tetra
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Tank Mates for Penguin Tetra
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Julii Corydoras
Corydoras julii
easy · 15+ gal
Panda Corydoras
Corydoras panda
easy · 10+ gal
Pearl Gourami
Trichopodus leerii
easy · 30+ gal
Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
moderate · 10+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other easy-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Penguin Tetra need?
A Penguin Tetra needs a minimum tank size of 20 gallons (76 litres). They should be kept in schools of at least 6.
What water parameters does a Penguin Tetra need?
Penguin Tetra thrive in water between 72-82°F (22-28°C) with a pH of 5.5-7.5.
Are Penguin Tetra easy to care for?
Penguin Tetra are considered easy to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do Penguin Tetra get and what do they eat?
Penguin Tetra reach about 3 inches and are omnivores. Keep penguin tetras in schools of at least six in a tank of 20 gallons or more. They prefer slightly soft, acidic to neutral water at 72-82°F. Their unique angled swimming posture is normal and not a sign of illness. Provide both open swimming areas and planted retreats. They are peaceful and mix well with other community fish of similar size. Feed quality flakes and pellets supplemented with frozen daphnia and brine shrimp. Penguin tetras are generally hardy and low-maintenance once established. A longer tank with moderate current suits their active swimming style.