Red Eye Tetra
Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae
Minimum Tank
20 Gallons
Adult Size
2.75 inches
Temperature
72-82°F (22-28°C)
pH Range
5.5-8.5
Lifespan
5 years
School Size
6+ fish
About Red Eye Tetra
The red eye tetra is a sturdy, moderately sized fish from the rivers of South America, found across a wide range from Paraguay and eastern Bolivia to Brazil and Argentina. Its most distinctive feature is its brilliant red upper eye, which contrasts sharply with its silvery body and black tail base marking. Red eye tetras are active, confident schoolers that bring reliable movement and a flash of color to mid and upper water levels. They are among the hardiest tetra species, tolerating a wide range of temperatures and water conditions. Their moderate size and robust constitution make them suitable companions for a variety of community fish, including some of the more assertive species.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 20-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- • pH: 5.5 - 8.5
- • 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
Red eye tetras are one of the easiest tetras to keep, adapting to temperatures from 73-82°F and a range of water chemistries. Keep them in schools of at least six in a tank with ample swimming room. They can be mildly nippy in small groups, so larger schools are recommended. Provide a mix of open areas and planted sections. They are not fussy eaters and readily accept flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. Their hardiness makes them a good choice for beginners, and their confident nature makes them effective dither fish for shy cichlids. Maintain regular water changes for optimal health and color.
Quick Facts
76L
Min Tank (20gal)
7cm
Adult Size (2.75")
5yr
Lifespan
6+
Min School
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Red Eye Tetra
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Paracheirodon innesi
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Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
Emperor Tetra
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Glowlight Tetra
Hemigrammus erythrozonus
Diamond Tetra
Moenkhausia pittieri
Flame Tetra
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Tank Mates for Red Eye Tetra
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Pearl Gourami
Trichopodus leerii
easy · 30+ gal
Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
moderate · 10+ gal
Odessa Barb
Pethia padamya
easy · 20+ gal
Clown Pleco
Panaqolus maccus
easy · 20+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other easy-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Red Eye Tetra need?
A Red Eye 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 Red Eye Tetra need?
Red Eye Tetra thrive in water between 72-82°F (22-28°C) with a pH of 5.5-8.5.
Are Red Eye Tetra easy to care for?
Red Eye Tetra are considered easy to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do Red Eye Tetra get and what do they eat?
Red Eye Tetra reach about 2.75 inches and are omnivores. Red eye tetras are one of the easiest tetras to keep, adapting to temperatures from 73-82°F and a range of water chemistries. Keep them in schools of at least six in a tank with ample swimming room. They can be mildly nippy in small groups, so larger schools are recommended. Provide a mix of open areas and planted sections. They are not fussy eaters and readily accept flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. Their hardiness makes them a good choice for beginners, and their confident nature makes them effective dither fish for shy cichlids. Maintain regular water changes for optimal health and color.