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Aphyocharax rathbuni, Eigenmann, 1907
Green fire tetra, Redflank Bloodfin

Origin: Rio Paraguay Basin

Etymology: Unknown.

Synonyms: Aphyocharax stramineus

First European import: Unknown.

Description: See pictures.

Care: These easy to keep tetras are best kept in large groups, a minimum of 6, but better is to keep them in groups of 8-12 in larger tanks, 1 meter and up. The Greenfire, or Redflank Bloodfin tetra, is pretty indifferent to watervalues, and can be kept in soft acidic, but also in alkaline water. A dark soil, some plants, and not too much light will intensify the coloration, and the fish will show a blueisch gree shine over the upper half of the body. These fish will inhabit the middle and upper waterlevels, swim a lot, and require some free swimming space. They do not do well if kept together with larger and or predatory fish, in which case they will mostly hide in between the plants.

Temperature:20-26°C

Feeding:Omnivorous, all food is accepted

Size:5.0 cm TL

pH: 6.0-7.0

Breeding: Possible in soft, acidic water. The fish are slightly territorial when breeding, which is why they can be bred in groups in larger tanks, or as a pair in a small breedin tank. Aphyocharax rathbuni will deposit the eggs on fine leaved plants(Riccia, Cabomba). The parents are best removed after spawning, since they will eat the eggs. The fry can be raised on artemia.

Sexual dimorphism: Males show white fintips.

Prices:Unknown, seldom available.

Additional:

Picture references: All pictures E. Naus

References:Baensch, H. A., Riehl, R.(1985): Aquarien Atlas II. Mergus Verlag, Melle, Germany.

http://www.fishbase.org/summary/SpeciesSummary.cfm?id=12340

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