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Phenacogrammus interruptus
A larger tetra that shimmers in iridescent blue, gold, and orange. Males develop flowing, feathery tail fins, making this dazzling schooler the flagship African characin.
The Congo tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus) is a medium-sized African characin from the rivers of the Congo Basin, famous for flanks that shimmer iridescent blue, gold, and orange and for the long, flowing greyish-blue dorsal, anal, and forked tail fins of mature males. At 6-8.5 cm it is large for a tetra and an active swimmer, so a 60 cm or larger tank suits it best. Kept in groups of six or more, the fish intensify each other's color and finnage. It prefers soft, slightly acidic water, and a blackwater tone from driftwood or peat brings out its best hues. Omnivorous, it readily takes flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. Generally peaceful, it may nonetheless eat very small fish or shrimp, so choose tankmates of similar size. It is somewhat skittish and can leap when startled, so a lid is essential. With good care it lives 3-5 years.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Origin
Rivers of the Congo Basin in Central Africa
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
6-8.5cm
Temperature
23〜27℃
Humidity
—(水中飼育)
Omnivore (flakes, pellets, frozen food)
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Accepted name: Phenacogrammus interruptus (Boulenger, 1899)
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
FishBase: CITES Not Evaluated。観賞魚として広く流通する標準種。
Sources: FishBase / CITES Appendices (Checklist)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
60cm+; active swimmers need space
Keep 6+ for the best color and finnage
Soft, slightly acidic; driftwood/peat for a blackwater tone
Peaceful, but may eat very small fish or shrimp
Skittish and may leap; use a lid and a calm setting
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Congo Tetra is 23〜27℃. Recommended humidity is —(水中飼育). Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Congo Tetra is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Congo Tetra typically reaches 6-8.5cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Congo Tetra feeds on: Omnivore (flakes, pellets, frozen food). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Congo Tetra varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 25, 2026