Common Name: Cherry Red Congo Tetra
Scientific Name: Alestopetersius brichardi
Other Names: Brichard’s Congo Tetra, Red Congo Tetra
The Cherry Red Congo Tetra is a rare and vibrant species of African tetra known for its brilliant red hues, shimmering scales, and active schooling behavior. Closely related to the well-known Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus), this species is less common in the aquarium trade but is highly sought after for its rich cherry-red coloration and iridescent blue highlights. With the right care, they make a stunning addition to planted and community aquariums.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to the Congo River Basin in Central Africa, Alestopetersius brichardi inhabits slow-moving streams, tributaries, and floodplains with soft, acidic water and dense vegetation. These environments feature leaf litter, submerged roots, and overhanging foliage, which provide shade and shelter while allowing them to thrive in dimly lit conditions.
Size and Lifespan:
Cherry Red Congo Tetras grow to about 2.5-3 inches (6-7.5 cm) in length, making them slightly smaller than the common Congo Tetra. With proper care, they can live 5-8 years, provided they have a stable environment and a well-balanced diet.
Diet and Behavior:
These tetras are omnivorous micro-predators, feeding on small invertebrates, insect larvae, and plant matter in the wild. In an aquarium, they should be fed:
- High-quality flakes or micro pellets for omnivores
- Frozen or live foods (bloodworms, daphnia, baby brine shrimp)
- Vegetable matter (spirulina-based foods, blanched spinach or zucchini)
They are peaceful, active schooling fish, best kept in groups of 6 or more to reduce stress and encourage natural, synchronized swimming behaviors. Their males develop the most vibrant colors, especially when kept in a well-maintained environment with plenty of swimming space.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Cherry Red Congo Tetras is challenging but possible with the right setup. They are egg scatterers, meaning they deposit eggs among fine-leaved plants or moss. To encourage breeding:
- Maintain a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water (pH 6.0-6.5)
- Provide fine-leaved plants (such as Java moss) as spawning sites
- Condition adults with live and frozen foods
Once eggs are laid, parents should be removed, as they will eat the eggs. Fry hatch within 24-48 hours and should be fed infusoria or finely crushed flake food until they are large enough for baby brine shrimp.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 30 gallons is required for a group, with 50+ gallons preferred for larger schools. Their ideal setup includes:
- Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel
- Decor: Driftwood, leaf litter, and dense vegetation for natural shelter
- Filtration: Gentle filtration (sponge or canister filters) to mimic slow-moving waters
- Water Movement: Low to moderate flow
- Lighting: Dim to moderate lighting, with floating plants to diffuse brightness
Ideal Tank Mates:
Cherry Red Congo Tetras are peaceful and thrive in community setups with similarly sized, non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include:
- Other African tetras (Phenacogrammus or Alestopetersius species)
- Small peaceful cichlids (such as Apistogramma or Pelvicachromis species)
- Corydoras catfish
- Dwarf gouramis or peaceful rainbowfish
Avoid large or aggressive species that may intimidate them, such as larger cichlids or fin-nipping barbs.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. While hardy, Cherry Red Congo Tetras require stable water conditions, a well-balanced diet, and a group setting to display their best coloration and behavior.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- General Hardness (GH): 4-12 dGH
- Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- Cherry Red Congo Tetras develop their most intense colors when kept in blackwater conditions with tannins from driftwood or botanicals.
- Males grow slightly larger and have longer fins than females.
- Unlike many tetras, they have a more elongated and laterally compressed body, giving them a graceful swimming style similar to rainbowfish.
The Cherry Red Congo Tetra is a stunning and rewarding species that adds vibrancy, movement, and elegance to African-themed aquariums. With proper care, they thrive in planted tanks and make an excellent centerpiece schooling fish.
