Tetra Widow GM Pink

GM fish are brilliantly colored and beautiful fish. A natural fluorescence gene was added to the fish which resulted in fish that are fluorescent at all times. Because GM fish are a type of danio, barb or tetra, their care requirements are the same.  Widow Tetras originate from Rio Paraguay, Rio Guapore, Bolivia.

Click for all GM Fish at Rebel Pets.

Behavior

The widow tetra (or black skirt tetra) is a schooling fish that, contrary to its name, comes in several colors. While the wild black widow tetra is dark in color, consider the many-colored varieties that have been captive-bred. At least six or seven specimens create a healthy, happy school of fish, but avoid housing them with smaller species (particularly those with long, flowing fins) as black widows do sometimes nip. This active, fast-moving species is a great choice for aquarium beginners.

Tank Conditions

Widow tetras are an undemanding species that adapt to a range of conditions, though subdued lighting and neutral-colored gravel substrates are preferred. They are accustomed to large plants in their natural habitat and enjoy a well-planted aquarium with some open swimming space.  Taller plants are recommended since they typically stick to the middle of the aquarium, this will ensure that the fish have places to hide without having to venture down to the bottom of the tank.

Compatibility

A schooling fish by nature, widow tetras are best kept in groups of six or more. They make an excellent community fish due to their peaceful nature. Some owners report that they sometimes nip the fins of slower-moving fish, particularly those with long, flowing fins such as bettas or angelfish.  They tend to do best in community tanks with other mild-mannered fish and no aggressive or carnivorous species.

Feeding

Widow tetras readily accept virtually any food, including live, fresh, frozen, freeze-dried, or flake foods. For the breed’s optimal health, provide a variety of foods, which can include high-quality flake foods, brine shrimp, and any type of worms, as well as vegetable supplements and spirulina.

Care

Hardy and easy to care for, you shouldn’t have any issues regardless of how much experience you have with fishkeeping or aquariums. This species is easy to please and they don’t have any complex habitat requirements. Widow tetras are at risk for Ick (Ich), fungal and bacterial infections. The most common are Dropsy, fin rot, and Fish Fungus. Most of these issues can be treated by improving water quality and using over-the-counter medications.

See Fish Disease Diagnosis and Treatment at Rebel Pets for help with diagnosing and treating diseases.