How to Breed Penguin Tetras

Thayeria boehlkei, also known as the penguin tetra fish, is a small species of fish common in home aquariums, and it can be difficult to breed unless you have created the proper conditions in the tank. The penguin tetra will create brooks of up to 1,000 eggs, which will hatch in a day. The size of the tank, state of the water and the substrate are all important factors in getting the fish to breed.

Things You'll Need

  • Large breeding tank
  • Fine-leafed aquarium plants
  • Slightly acidic soft water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare a large breeding tank. Fill it with soft water that is slightly acidic, with a pH level of 5.5.

    • 2

      Add fine-leafed plants as substrate, which will catch the large number of eggs.

    • 3

      Put the male and female fish in the tank when the female has a distended belly from all the eggs inside of her, indicating that she is ready to spawn.

    • 4

      Remove the fish from the tank after spawning and change the water, as the sperm will foul up the water. The eggs will hatch in about a day.