Congo Tetra

Phenacogrammus interruptus

Congo Tetra is a peaceful middle-to-top swimmer. Keep in a school of 6+.

PeacefulMiddle to top swimmerKeep in a school of 6+Beginner – Intermediate

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

Quick facts

Adult size
≤ 3.3" (≤ 8.5 cm)
Aquarium size
33 US gal (125 L) or larger / ≥ 39.4" (≥ 100 cm) minimum length
Care level
Beginner – Intermediate
Temperament
Peaceful
Swimming zone
Middle to top swimmer
Temperature
75–81°F (24–27°C)
pH
6.2–7.2
GH
4–18 dGH
KH
4–8 dKH
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
up to 5 years
Group behavior
Keep in a school of 6+

Care requirements

Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.

Lifespan: up to 5 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

Minimum aquarium size: 33 US gal (125 L) or larger / ≥ 39.4" (≥ 100 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 24–27 °C, pH 6.2–7.2, GH 4–18 dGH, KH 4–8 dKH.

Temperament and compatibility

Congo Tetra is peaceful and suits calm community fish.

Keep in a school of 6+.

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. Keep in a school of 6+.

Feeding

As an omnivore, Congo Tetra should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.

Before adding this fish

  • Plan for an aquarium of 33 US gal (125 L) or larger / ≥ 39.4" (≥ 100 cm) minimum length.
  • Make room for its social group.
  • Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
  • Keep in a school of 6+.
  • Offer a varied diet that matches this species.

Natural habitat and origin

Origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Similar fish profiles

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

Blue Eyed Congo Tetra Phenacogrammus aurantiacus Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.9" (≤ 10 cm) 72–81°F (22–27°C) African Spottail Tetra Brachypetersius altus Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.4" (≤ 6 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C) Blue Diamond Tetra Alestopetersius smykalai Same family Similar care level Same temperament Intermediate ≤ 2.4" (≤ 6 cm) 73–81°F (23–27°C) African Copper Ribbon Tetra Rhabdalestes septentrionalis Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.8" (≤ 7 cm) 72–82°F (22–28°C) African Red Eyed Tetra Arnoldichthys spilopterus Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.1" (≤ 8 cm) 72–81°F (22–27°C) African Moon Tetra Bathyaethiops caudomaculatus Same family Similar care level Same temperament Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.1" (≤ 8 cm) 72–77°F (22–25°C)

FAQ

How large does Congo Tetra get?

Congo Tetra reaches ≤ 3.3" (≤ 8.5 cm).

What aquarium size does Congo Tetra need?

Use an aquarium of at least 33 US gal (125 L) or larger / ≥ 39.4" (≥ 100 cm) minimum length.

Is Congo Tetra peaceful?

Yes. Congo Tetra is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.

What temperature is suitable for Congo Tetra?

Keep it between 24 to 27 °C.

Should Congo Tetra be kept alone or in a group?

Congo Tetra: Keep in a school of 6+.

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