Blueberry Tetra

Remarks:   Blueberry tetras are a recent addition to the hobby by way of Brazilian exporters and was only scientifically described in 2016. Being a newer species, they are fairly rare in the hobby, but captive bred specimens do occasionally become available as they are bred both in Brazil and over seas. Their species name, wadai, actually comes from them being named after an influential Brazilian aquarist and breeder, Luiz Wada.

  This small, active species is an absolute show-stopper of a fish. Mature males, when in the right conditions, display iridescent blue-purple scales that darken towards the caudal fin, accented with bright red fins. Females are typically more muted in color and tend to have larger, more rounded bodies. This coloration looks amazing among green plants, the presence of which can also help them feel more comfortable and brave within the aquarium.

  Being a fairly timid schooling species, blueberry tetras should be kept in groups no smaller than six with ten or more being optimal. Not having a large enough group can stress them and sometimes result in nipping behavior. They also require very clean, soft, and acidic water to remain healthy. If kept in proper numbers and parameters, they are very peaceful and can add a brilliant flash of color to a South American community tank.