Classification
Aphyocharax anisitsi, also known as the bloodfin tetra, belongs to the Characidae family, which is part of the Characiformes order of fish.
Characiformes order
Characiformes is an order of freshwater fish that includes over 2000 species in several families, including the Characidae, Crenuchidae, and Erythrinidae families.
Characiformes are found primarily in South and Central America, as well as some parts of Africa. They are known for their diverse shapes and sizes, ranging from small tetras to larger species like piranhas. Many Characiformes are popular in the aquarium trade due to their striking colors and patterns.
Characiformes play an important role in aquatic ecosystems, serving as a food source for many other species and contributing to the overall biodiversity of freshwater environments.
Within the Characiformes order, there are several families, each with their own unique characteristics. For example, the Characidae family is one of the largest families of freshwater fish, containing over 2000 species that are known for their diverse shapes and sizes. The Crenuchidae family includes species like the dwarf pencilfish, and the Erythrinidae family includes species like the red wolf fish.
Characidae family
The Characidae family is a large and diverse family of freshwater fish that belongs to the Characiformes order. This family includes over 2000 species that are found primarily in South and Central America, as well as some parts of Africa.
Characidae fish vary greatly in size and shape, ranging from small tetras to larger species like piranhas. Many species are popular in the aquarium trade due to their striking colors and patterns.
The Characidae family is further divided into several subfamilies, including the Characinae, Aphyocharacinae, and Cheirodontinae. The Characinae subfamily includes several popular aquarium species, such as the neon tetra and the black tetra. The Aphyocharacinae subfamily includes species like the bloodfin tetra, and the Cheirodontinae subfamily includes species like the pencilfish.
Characidae fish are known for their role in aquatic ecosystems as a food source for many other species. They also play a role in the aquarium trade and are widely appreciated for their beauty and unique characteristics.
In terms of taxonomy, the Characidae family has undergone several changes over time. For example, some species that were once considered part of the Characidae family have been reclassified into other families, such as the Crenuchidae family.
The genus Aphyocharax, to which Aphyocharax anisitsi belongs, is further divided into many different species, many of which are popular among hobbyist aquarists due to their colorful and striking appearance.
In terms of its scientific classification, Aphyocharax anisitsi was originally described as Tetragonopterus anisitsi by an Austrian zoologist named Franz Steindachner in 1887. However, it was later reclassified into the genus Aphyocharax, and its scientific name was changed to Aphyocharax anisitsi.
The bloodfin tetra is a popular aquarium fish due to its striking appearance, particularly its bright red dorsal fin. It is also relatively easy to care for and can live peacefully with other small fish species. Overall, Aphyocharax anisitsi is an interesting and unique freshwater fish species that is appreciated by aquarists for its beauty and ease of care.
Distribution
Aphyocharax anisitsi is a small freshwater fish species that is native to the Paraná River basin in South America. The species is primarily found in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, but it has also been reported in other nearby countries, such as Uruguay and Bolivia. Within the Paraná River basin, Aphyocharax anisitsi is known to inhabit a range of freshwater habitats, including rivers, streams, ponds, and marshes.
Aphyocharax anisitsi is a schooling species, which means that individuals tend to form groups and swim together in a coordinated manner. The species is omnivorous and feeds on a variety of food sources, including small invertebrates and plant material.
While Aphyocharax anisitsi is not considered to be an endangered species, its populations have been affected by various human activities, such as habitat destruction, overfishing, and the introduction of non-native species. As a result, there have been efforts to monitor and conserve populations of Aphyocharax anisitsi and other freshwater fish species in the region.
In brief, Aphyocharax anisitsi is an interesting and unique species of freshwater fish that is appreciated by hobbyist aquarists for its striking appearance and ease of care. It plays an important role in aquatic ecosystems, and efforts to conserve and protect its populations are crucial for maintaining the biodiversity and health of freshwater environments in the Paraná River basin and beyond.
Habitat
Habitat refers to the natural environment or ecological setting in which a particular species or group of species lives and thrives. For animals, habitat includes a range of physical and biological factors, such as temperature, humidity, vegetation, and other biotic and abiotic factors.
The habitat requirements of different species can vary greatly, depending on their specific needs and adaptations. Some species are highly specialized and can only survive in very specific environments, while others are more generalist and can adapt to a wide range of habitats.
For freshwater fish species like Aphyocharax anisitsi, habitat generally includes bodies of freshwater, such as rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. These habitats can vary greatly in terms of temperature, water chemistry, and other physical factors, depending on the region and location.
Aphyocharax anisitsi is primarily found in the Paraná River basin in South America, where it can be found in a variety of freshwater habitats, including rivers, streams, ponds, and marshes. The species is typically found in clear or slightly turbid water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 and a temperature range of 23 to 28°C.
In general, the habitat requirements of Aphyocharax anisitsi and other freshwater fish species depend on a range of factors, such as water quality, temperature, food availability, and shelter. Efforts to conserve and protect the habitats of freshwater fish species are crucial for maintaining the biodiversity and health of freshwater environments and supporting the long-term survival of these species.
Maximum Standard Length
Maximum Standard Length (SL) refers to the maximum size or length that a particular species of fish can reach. Standard Length is a commonly used measurement for fish, and it refers to the length of the fish from the tip of the snout to the end of the caudal fin, excluding the fin rays.
According to available sources, the maximum standard length of Aphyocharax anisitsi is reported to be around 50-55 mm, which is approximately 2 inches. This size range is not uncommon for small freshwater fish like tetras and minnows, and it suggests that Aphyocharax anisitsi is a suitable species for aquarium hobbyists who are looking to keep smaller fish species in their tanks.
It’s important to note that the maximum standard length is just one aspect of a fish’s physical characteristics, and other factors like weight, body shape, and coloration can also vary greatly among individuals of the same species. In addition, the maximum standard length is not always indicative of the overall health or quality of a fish species.
In addition to its size, Aphyocharax anisitsi is known for its unique and striking appearance, particularly its bright red dorsal fin, which has earned it the common name “bloodfin tetra.” The species is also a schooling fish, which means that individuals tend to form groups and swim together in a coordinated manner. Therefore, it is recommended to keep them in groups of six or more to promote their social behavior and reduce stress.
While understanding the maximum standard length of Aphyocharax anisitsi is helpful when selecting suitable tank mates and planning the size and layout of the aquarium, it’s important to also consider other factors, such as water quality, tank size, and diet. Proper care and management can help ensure the health and longevity of these fish in captivity.
Overall, while the maximum standard length of Aphyocharax anisitsi may be relatively small, it is a unique and interesting species that can be a valuable addition to a home aquarium. Proper care and management, including appropriate tank size, water quality, and diet, can help ensure the health and longevity of these fish in captivity.
Aquarium Size
According to some sources, an aquarium with base dimensions of 60 x 30 cm (24 x 12 inches) is suitable for a small group of Aphyocharax anisitsi. This aquarium size would provide enough space for a small school of six to eight adult Aphyocharax anisitsi to swim and move around comfortably.
However, it’s important to note that the appropriate aquarium size for Aphyocharax anisitsi can depend on a range of factors, including the number of fish being kept, their size, and their activity levels. In addition, other factors such as water quality, filtration, and temperature should also be considered when setting up an aquarium for this species.
As a general rule of thumb, it’s always best to provide as much space as possible for the fish in your care. A larger aquarium can provide more swimming space and can help dilute waste and maintain stable water conditions. Therefore, if possible, it may be best to opt for a larger aquarium size than the minimum recommended size.
In summary, understanding the appropriate aquarium size for Aphyocharax anisitsi is an important factor in providing suitable care and ensuring the health and wellbeing of these fish in captivity. A suitable aquarium size, combined with appropriate care and management, can help promote the natural behaviors and social interactions of this species in the aquarium environment.
Maintenance
Maintaining a suitable environment for Aphyocharax anisitsi is important for ensuring the health and wellbeing of this species in captivity. Aphyocharax anisitsi looks most at home in a planted aquarium, where it can take advantage of areas of dense vegetation and some open areas for swimming.
In addition to plants, other decor such as twisted roots and pieces of bogwood can be added to the aquarium to provide hiding places and create a natural-looking environment. Some floating vegetation is also appreciated, as Aphyocharax anisitsi tends to swim in the upper reaches of the tank.
It’s important to ensure that the aquarium has a very tightly-fitting cover, as Aphyocharax anisitsi can be prone to jumping on occasion. Maintaining water quality is also important for the health of Aphyocharax anisitsi. Regular water changes, adequate filtration, and monitoring of water parameters such as ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels can help ensure a healthy environment for the fish.
On the whole, providing a suitable environment and maintaining proper care and management can help ensure the health and wellbeing of Aphyocharax anisitsi in captivity. A planted aquarium with areas of dense vegetation and open swimming areas, along with suitable decor and water quality, can help promote the natural behaviors and social interactions of this species in the aquarium environment.
Water Conditions
Maintaining appropriate water conditions is crucial for the health and wellbeing of Aphyocharax anisitsi in captivity. This species prefers a water temperature range of 18 to 28°C (64 to 82°F), a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0, and a water hardness range of 54 to 447 ppm.
The aquarium should be equipped with a suitable filtration system to help maintain water quality. Regular water changes are important for diluting waste and maintaining stable water conditions. It’s recommended to perform weekly water changes of around 25% to 50% of the total aquarium volume.
In terms of nutrition, Aphyocharax anisitsi is an omnivore and requires a varied diet that includes high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen or live foods, and vegetable matter.
As a schooling fish, Aphyocharax anisitsi should be kept in groups of six or more individuals. The recommended tank size for a group of six to eight adult Aphyocharax anisitsi is around 20 gallons (75 liters), but a larger tank may be necessary for larger groups or if other fish species are being kept in the same tank.
In brief, providing appropriate water conditions and nutrition, along with suitable tank size and appropriate care and management, can help ensure the health and wellbeing of Aphyocharax anisitsi in captivity. A well-maintained aquarium can help promote the natural behaviors and social interactions of this species, which can be enjoyable to observe and interact with for hobbyist aquarists.
Diet
Aphyocharax anisitsi is an omnivorous fish species that will readily accept a wide variety of foods. In the wild, its diet consists of small aquatic insects, crustaceans, and plant matter.
In the home aquarium, Aphyocharax anisitsi can be fed high-quality dried flakes and pellets as a staple diet, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Vegetable matter such as spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables can also be offered to provide additional nutrients.
To ensure a well-balanced diet, it’s recommended to offer a variety of foods and to feed small amounts multiple times throughout the day. Overfeeding should be avoided, as it can lead to health problems and water quality issues.
Aphyocharax anisitsi is an active species that requires regular feeding to maintain optimal health and condition. A varied and balanced diet can help promote growth, coloration, and overall health, and can also help promote natural behaviors and social interactions in the aquarium environment.
Behaviour and Compatibility
Aphyocharax anisitsi is generally a peaceful fish that can be kept with other peaceful fish species. However, it may nip at long-finned or slow-moving tankmates, so caution should be exercised when selecting tankmates.
It’s recommended to keep Aphyocharax anisitsi in a mixed shoal with other characids, such as neon tetras or other small tetra species. They can also be kept with Corydoras catfish and small Loricariids.
Aphyocharax anisitsi is a shoaling fish by nature and should be kept in a group of at least six individuals. Keeping them in a group can help reduce stress and promote natural behaviors, such as swimming and feeding.
In terms of behavior, Aphyocharax anisitsi is an active and lively species that enjoys swimming and exploring its environment. They are social fish and will often engage in playful interactions with other members of their shoal.
In general, Aphyocharax anisitsi is a peaceful and social species that can be a great addition to a community aquarium. With appropriate tankmates and a suitable environment, they can thrive and display their natural behaviors and social interactions.
Sexual Dimorphism
Sexual dimorphism is present in Aphyocharax anisitsi, with males typically exhibiting slimmer and more colorful bodies than females. As males mature, they develop small hooks on some of their pelvic and anal fin rays, which are used for holding onto females during spawning.
These hooks are absent in females, and their bodies are typically rounder and plumper than males. Additionally, females may have a slightly larger size than males. These differences are most noticeable during the breeding season, when males display their brightest colors and females become noticeably fuller with eggs.
Observing and understanding the differences between male and female Aphyocharax anisitsi can be helpful in maintaining a healthy and balanced population in a home aquarium. It’s important to keep an appropriate ratio of males to females to avoid any aggressive behavior or dominance displays.
A group of six or more Aphyocharax anisitsi is ideal for a home aquarium, with a ratio of two to three females per male. Providing a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots can help reduce aggression and stress in the fish. Keeping the water clean and well-maintained is also important in promoting overall health and breeding success in this species.
Reproduction
Breeding Aphyocharax anisitsi can be an interesting and rewarding experience for aquarists. To breed this species, it’s recommended to set up a separate small tank that is furnished with clumps of fine-leaved plants such as java moss, which will act as a spawning medium. A soft substrate can also be added to the bottom of the tank to provide a natural environment for the fish.
Water parameters are not critical for breeding, but very alkaline water should be avoided. The temperature should be around 24-28°C, and a pH of 6.0-7.5 is ideal. It’s important to maintain good water quality, so regular water changes should be performed.
Before breeding, the fish should be conditioned in a separate tank on a high-quality diet of frozen and live foods. Both males and females should be well-fed to ensure optimal health and readiness for breeding.
When the females are noticeably full of eggs and the males are displaying their best colors, the fattest female and best-colored male should be selected and transferred to the spawning tank. Once in the tank, continue to feed lots of live and frozen foods until you notice the eggs. If the fish are in condition, this will probably occur the following morning.
The eggs are usually deposited among the plants, but they are not adhesive, and many will fall to the tank floor or even float. The adults should be removed post-spawning, as they will eat the eggs if given the opportunity.
The eggs will hatch in approximately 24 hours, and after the tiny fry have used up their yolk sacs, they should be offered infusoria-type food for the first few days, followed by microworm and/or brine shrimp nauplii. It’s important to feed the fry small amounts frequently throughout the day to promote healthy growth and development.
Aphyocharax anisitsi is a fecund species, and you may end up with several hundred fry on your hands. Providing a suitable environment and diet for the fry can help promote growth and development. As they grow, it may be necessary to transfer them to a larger grow-out tank to avoid overcrowding.
Notes
Aphyocharax anisitsi is a great choice for beginner aquarists, as it is a hardy species that can adapt to a wide range of water conditions. It can even be kept in an unheated tank in a well-insulated house, although its colors may not be as vibrant as when kept in warmer water.
This species is also quite long-lived, and captive specimens over ten years old are not uncommon. With proper care and a suitable environment, Aphyocharax anisitsi can provide years of enjoyment and make a great addition to a community aquarium.
