Sailfin Tetra - Crenuchus spilurus

The Sailfin Tetra or Sailfin Characin is a solitary and secretive species from South America. Unlike most tetras these fish are often alone instead of travelling in schools. The most distinguishing feature is the elongated dorsal fin. This is a fast moving species with a predatory nature, though its prey is not usually other fish, but small copepods, larvae and crustaceans. It will need a meaty diet in the aquarium and should not be housed with very small tankmates. If you are fortunate enough to have these fish spawn in captivity, you'll see that it is the male that tends the spawned eggs.

Many tropical community aquariums are populated with tetras, rasboras and other similar schooling fish. Though these fish are rather small, their pleasant temperaments, the schooling behaviors they exhibit and a vast variety of colors and shapes make them popular in the hobby. They can grow anywhere from a few centimeters to a few inches, and can add movement to a freshwater fish tank. Most of these fish are fairly easy to care for and have similar water chemistry and care requirements.

Tetras are probably the the largest group of fish offered for community aquariums. They can be distinguished from other schooling community fish by the small adipose fin present between the dorsal fin and the tail. Tetras include small species such as the vibrant neon and cardinal tetras to much larger and more robust species like Buenos Aires Tetras and Congo Tetras.

Danios are commonly recommended as “starter fish” and dither fish. They are fast and active swimmers and they like a long tank to swim in. Danios have interesting markings and are generally hardy and peaceful.

Rasboras are actually small members of the carp family. These schooling fish can be very colorful and are popular for community tanks.

These fish prefer aquariums with plenty plants and ornamentation to explore, but also need plenty of open space to swim. They can be fed commercial flakes, granules and small pellets as a staple diet, with occasional feedings of meaty frozen or freeze dried treats such as bloodworms, plankton, mysis or brine shrimp. They prefer to be kept in groups of six or more to school and feel secure.