This is a species for more advanced hobbyists because its aggressive tendencies and relatively large size (for a tetra) make it quite unsuitable for the usual community aquarium setups. Under appropriate conditions, a shoal of Exodon make an unforgettable sight, not just because of their coloration and bold patterning, but because of their high levels of activity.
Other common name
- Buck-toothed Tetra
Family
- Characidae
Subfamily
- Uncertain
Distribution
- Widely but locally in the Amazon basin.
Size
- Up to 6in (15cm)
Behavior
- Aggressive predator, always on the move. May be kept in a large shoal, but not as small groups of two or three individuals. May also be kept with similar-sized or larger, robust fish.
Diet
- Meat-based commercial formulations, deep-frozen, freeze-dried, and livefoods all accepted.
Aquarium
- Large, well- covered aquarium with ample swimming space essential. Efficient filtration, thickets of vegetation (including floating plants), and subdued lighting are also required. Temperature range: 72-82°F (22-28°C).
Breeding
- Eggs are scattered among vegetation. Hatching takes about 1 1/2 days.
