Species profile
Glass Tetra
Bario oligolepis
Peaceful
Easy care
90 L minimum aquarium
5–6 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Accepted genus updated from Moenkhausia to Bario in the 2024 characid reclassification. Retain Moenkhausia oligolepis as a synonym/search alias.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–27 °C
pH
6–8
GH
2–15 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: 8
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.6
Active but generally peaceful shoaling tetra. Keep a substantial group and provide open swimming space with planted/wooded margins.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
5–7 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
90 L
Minimum footprint
90 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Bario oligolepis
Alternative names
Moenkhausia oligolepis, Glass Tetra, Redeye Glass Tetra
Native range
Amazon and Guiana Shield drainages in northern South America.
Natural habitat
Streams and river margins over sand/gravel with vegetation and woody cover; tolerates a broader chemistry range than many blackwater tetras.
Diet & feeding
Small invertebrates, plant matter and detritus; accepts varied dry, frozen and live foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are fuller/deeper-bodied; mature males tend to be slimmer and may show stronger fin colour.
Breeding
Egg-scattering characin with no parental care; adults will eat eggs if left with the spawn.