Quick Stats
| Adult Size | 5 cm |
| Minimum Tank | 15 gal |
| Temperature | 22–28°C |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 |
| Hardness (GH) | 4–15 dGH |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Diet | Omnivore — flakes, micro pellets, frozen bloodworm |
| Schooling | 6+ required |
Tank Setup
The Penguin Tetra (Thayeria boehlkei) requires a minimum tank size of 15 gal. For a species this size, a larger tank is always better — more water volume means more stable parameters and a healthier environment.
Water parameters should be maintained within the following ranges: temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, and hardness 4–15 dGH. These are relatively tolerant fish that adapt to a range of conditions.
Provide appropriate hiding places, a suitable substrate, and planted areas to match the natural behaviour of this species.
Tank Mates
Penguin Tetra are peaceful fish. They work well in community tanks with similarly-sized peaceful species.
Compatible tank mates include: Lemon Tetra, Corydoras, Bristlenose Pleco, Harlequin Rasbora, Cherry Shrimp. Avoid housing with aggressive or much larger fish.
Schooling requirements: 6+ required. Keeping them in adequate numbers is essential for their wellbeing.
Diet & Feeding
Penguin Tetra are Omnivore. Feed a varied diet to ensure optimal health and colouration.
Omnivore — flakes, micro pellets, frozen bloodworm
Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily. Only provide what the fish can consume within 2–3 minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues. Supplement with live or frozen foods for optimal health and colour.
Common Health Issues
Like all aquarium fish, Penguin Tetra can be susceptible to common diseases including ich (white spot disease), fin rot, and bacterial infections. This species is generally hardy and disease-resistant when kept in good conditions.
Prevention is always better than treatment. Maintain stable water parameters, avoid overfeeding, quarantine new fish before adding them to the main tank, and perform regular water changes. A regular maintenance routine will prevent most health issues.
If disease does occur, isolate affected fish in a quarantine tank and treat appropriately. Always research medication compatibility before use — some treatments are toxic to invertebrates and scaleless fish.
Breeding
Breeding Penguin Tetra is possible in the home aquarium.
Provide appropriate breeding conditions — planted areas with fine-leaved plants. Condition breeding pairs with high-quality foods before attempting to spawn them.
Many Penguin Tetra will breed readily without intervention. Be prepared to remove eggs or fry if you want to raise them — adult fish may eat their own young.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Penguin Tetra need?
A Penguin Tetra needs a minimum tank size of 15 gal. Larger is always better — more water volume means more stable water parameters and healthier fish.
Are Penguin Tetra easy to keep?
Penguin Tetra are rated as Easy difficulty. Beginners can keep them successfully with proper research and a cycled tank.
What do Penguin Tetra eat?
Penguin Tetra are Omnivore. Feed a varied diet including flakes, micro pellets, frozen bloodworm.
Can Penguin Tetra live with other fish?
Penguin Tetra are peaceful. Compatible tankmates include: Lemon Tetra, Corydoras, Bristlenose Pleco, Harlequin Rasbora, Cherry Shrimp. They work well in community tanks with similarly-sized peaceful fish.