Species profile
Bucktooth Tetra
Exodon paradoxus
Aggressive
Hard care
300 L minimum aquarium
7–10 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 12
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Specialist scale-eating tetra. A large conspecific group in a spacious species-focused aquarium is far safer than a conventional community setup.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
5.5–7.5
GH
0–20 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: 12
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
1.5
Highly predatory/nipping feeding behaviour is natural. Keep a large group with abundant space and feeding opportunities to diffuse attacks.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
Plant safe
Yes
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
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
300 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Exodon paradoxus
Alternative names
Bucktooth Tetra, Bucktooth Characin
Native range
Amazon and Tocantins drainage systems of South America.
Natural habitat
Provide strong filtration, open midwater swimming room, visual breaks and a tight cover.
Diet & feeding
Naturally consumes scales and animal matter. Feed a varied high-protein diet of appropriately sized meaty frozen/live foods and quality carnivore pellets.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
External sexual differences are subtle; mature females are generally fuller when gravid.
Breeding
Egg-scatterer; captive spawning is possible but eggs/fry require protection from adults.