Rummynose Tetra

Rummynose Tetra - The Tightest-Schooling Tetra with a Built-In Water Quality Gauge

The Rummynose Tetra is prized for its bright red nose and head set against a silver body, finished off with a crisp black-and-white striped tail that flashes as the school turns in perfect unison. Few community fish school as tightly or as visually as this species.

That vivid red colouration is more than decorative — it acts as a handy indicator of water quality, fading or patchy when conditions slip and deep red when the tank is running clean. Because of this sensitivity, it's best introduced to a fully cycled, established aquarium rather than a brand-new setup, after which it proves to be a reliable, rewarding schooler.

At N8 Aquatics, our fish are carefully raised and conditioned to ensure healthy stock suited to home aquariums.

Species Snapshot

• Size Sold: Juvenile, 2-3 cm
• Adult Size: ~5 cm
• Tank Size: 60 L minimum, keep in a group of 8 or more — they school tighter than any other tetra, a real showpiece
• Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish
• Temperature: 24-27°C
• pH: 6.0-7.0
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Ideal Habitat and Care

Provide a tank of at least 60 L minimum with plenty of cover and open swimming space, matching the temperament and schooling needs described above.

• Temperature: 24-27°C
• pH: 6.0-7.0
• Water Flow: Moderate flow
• Maintenance: Weekly partial water changes; best kept in a fully cycled, established tank as they are more sensitive to water quality — their nose colour is a handy indicator of water conditions

Diet

An easy feeder once settled, though best introduced to a mature, established tank.

• Micro pellet or flake as a daily staple
• Frozen daphnia for variety
• Frozen bloodworm for extra protein
• Small, regular feeds suit their size

Compatibility

A tight-schooling species that pairs beautifully with other peaceful, established community fish.

Suitable tankmates include:

• Other peaceful tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras
• Dwarf gourami

Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Why Buy From N8 Aquatics

• Carefully raised aquarium fish
• Healthy, well-conditioned stock
• Strong genetics and vibrant colouration
• Breeder support if you have questions

Pickup Information

N8 Aquatics currently operates as a local pickup-only breeder in Central Queensland.

Orders are collected by appointment after purchase confirmation.

Please ensure you are able to collect your fish before placing an order.

Important

All livestock sold by N8 Aquatics should be introduced to fully cycled aquariums suitable for the species being kept.

Please ensure your aquarium setup and tankmates are appropriate before purchasing.