Bucktooth Tetra

Exodon paradoxus

Bucktooth Tetra is a middle-to-top swimmer.

AggressiveMiddle to top swimmerIntermediate – Advanced

Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.

Quick facts

Adult size
≤ 12 cm (≤ 4.7 in)
Care level
Intermediate – Advanced
Temperament
Aggressive
Swimming zone
Middle to top swimmer
Temperature
22–27 °C
pH
5.5–7.5
GH
5–20 dGH
Diet
Carnivore
Lifespan
up to 10 years

Care requirements

Care level: Intermediate – Advanced.

Because it uses the middle to upper part of the aquarium, leave enough open swimming space instead of crowding that part of the aquarium.

The listed lifespan is up to 10 years.

Water parameters

The temperature range for this fish is 22–27 °C. Compare it carefully with the aquarium target temperature instead of assuming every tropical community setup is suitable.

The pH range for this fish is 5.5–7.5. That points to acidic to neutral water, but stability is more important than sudden corrections.

The GH range for this fish is 5–20 dGH. That gives some flexibility, but sudden changes are usually more stressful than a stable value that is slightly imperfect.

Temperament and compatibility

Bucktooth Tetra should be planned cautiously with compatible fish only, because aggressive temperament data raises the risk of conflict.

Because this fish uses the middle to upper part of the aquarium, compatibility is easier when other fish are not all competing for the same swimming space.

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the middle to upper part of the aquarium, so leave enough open swimming space for movement and feeding.

Feeding

Use foods that suit a meatier diet and avoid combining it with fish small enough to be treated as food.

Before adding this fish

  • Choose other fish with overlapping temperature needs.
  • Keep pH stable within the listed range instead of making sudden corrections.
  • Choose other fish carefully around this temperament.
  • Offer a varied diet that matches this species.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

FAQ

How large does Bucktooth Tetra get?

Bucktooth Tetra reaches ≤ 12 cm (≤ 4.7 in). Provide swimming room.

Is Bucktooth Tetra peaceful?

Bucktooth Tetra should be planned cautiously with compatible fish only, because aggressive behavior can limit companion options.

What temperature is suitable for Bucktooth Tetra?

The temperature range for this fish is 22 to 27 °C. Choose other fish with overlapping temperature needs and avoid sudden temperature swings.

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