Species profile
Head and Tail Light Tetra
Holopristis ocellifera
Peaceful
Easy care
70 L minimum aquarium
4–5 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Head-and-taillight/Beacon tetra. Current taxonomy places the species in Holopristis.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 8
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.6
Peaceful social characin. Keep a decent group with floating/overhanging cover and open mid-water swimming space.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
70 L
Minimum footprint
75 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Holopristis ocellifera
Alternative names
Head and Tail Light Tetra, Head & Tail Light Tetra, Beacon Tetra, Hemigrammus ocellifer
Native range
Northern South America, including Guianas and Amazon/Orinoco-connected coastal drainages.
Natural habitat
Adults favour low-current coastal-zone freshwater. Use gentle flow, plants/floating cover and darker retreats.
Diet & feeding
Feeds on worms, small insects, crustaceans and plant material; varied small prepared and frozen/live foods are appropriate.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are generally smaller and slimmer; mature females are deeper-bodied.
Breeding
Prolific egg-scatterer in suitable conditions; eggs hatch rapidly at warm temperatures and parents provide no care.