Species profile
Buenos Aires Tetra Variant
Psalidodon anisitsi
Semi aggressive
Easy care
120 L minimum aquarium
6–8 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Domestic colour/fin variant of the very active Buenos Aires Tetra, now Psalidodon anisitsi. Hardy but prone to fin-nipping and eating tender plants.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
15–27 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
Up to 18 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
1
Fast, bold shoaling tetra. Avoid long-finned tankmates and keep a proper group; soft plants are likely to be damaged/eaten.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
120 L
Minimum footprint
100 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Psalidodon anisitsi
Alternative names
Buenos Aires Tetra Variant, Buenos Aires Tetra, Psalidodon anisitsi, Hyphessobrycon anisitsi
Native range
Captive domestic form; parent species native to the Paraná and Uruguay River basins of South America.
Natural habitat
Parent species uses rivers, streams, floodwaters and ponds. Provide a spacious open swimming area, robust décor and good filtration; hard plants are safer than tender species.
Diet & feeding
Feeds on worms, crustaceans, insects and plant material. Offer varied omnivore foods with vegetable content to reduce plant grazing pressure.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are usually larger and deeper-bodied; males are slimmer and may be more intensely coloured.
Breeding
Egg-scattering non-guarder. Spawns among plants; eggs can hatch in about a day and adults should be removed to prevent predation.