Penguin Tetra

The Penguin Tetra, also known as the Hockey Stick Tetra due to its distinctive black stripe running from the gills to the tail fin, is a delightful and hardy aquarium fish from the Amazon basin. Their common name comes from their tendency to swim with their heads slightly upturned, resembling penguins. This peaceful species features a silver body accented with a bold black lateral stripe and a splash of yellow or gold at the base of the tail. Unlike many tetras that are retiring and shy, Penguin Tetras are active and bold swimmers, often exploring all levels of the aquarium. They are remarkably adaptable to various water conditions and are an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Their unique swimming posture and active nature make them a favorite among community tank enthusiasts.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Penguin Tetras appreciate a well-planted aquarium with open swimming areas. While they enjoy having plants to retreat to when feeling threatened, they spend much of their time in the open water column. A darker substrate and background help their black stripe stand out dramatically. Provide a 20-gallon tank or larger to accommodate their active swimming style.

Water Quality

• Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate, 2-15 dGH
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

These omnivores are enthusiastic eaters that readily accept all types of prepared foods. Feed a varied diet including high-quality flakes, micro pellets, and regular supplements of frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Their active metabolism means they benefit from multiple small feedings throughout the day.

Behavior & Compatibility

Penguin Tetras are peaceful community fish that swim in loose schools. Unlike some tetras that school tightly, these fish often spread out throughout the tank while still maintaining visual contact with their group. They are suitable for community tanks with other peaceful species of similar size. Their unique swimming angle adds visual interest to any aquarium.

Tips for Success

• Maintain a school of at least 6 individuals; larger groups of 10+ show more natural behaviors
• Provide both open swimming space and areas with plants or decorations
• Their upturned swimming posture is completely normal and healthy
• They are excellent jumpers; keep the tank securely covered at all times
• They tolerate a wide range of water parameters but prefer stable conditions
• Consider them as dither fish to encourage shy species to come out of hiding