Glowlite Tetra

Glowlite Tetra (Hemigrammus erythrozonus)

Appearance & Behavior

Add a warm ribbon of color to your freshwater aquarium with Glowlite Tetras, also known as Glowlight Tetras. A bright orange-red stripe runs from the eye toward the tail across a translucent, silvery body, standing out beautifully against green plants and shaded backgrounds. A settled group brings gentle movement without dominating the aquarium. These peaceful, social fish feel more secure with their own kind and may become shy around large or boisterous tankmates.

Quick Care Guide

• Care Level: Easy to moderate; best in an established aquarium

• Temperament: Peaceful

• Adult Size: Approximately 1.5 inches

• Minimum Aquarium Size: 10 gallons; 20 gallons recommended for a larger school and community stocking

• Temperature: 74–80°F

• pH: 5.5–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, approximately 2–15 dGH

• Diet: Omnivore

• Swimming Area: Middle to lower

• Recommended Quantity: At least 6; preferably 10 or more when aquarium space and stocking allow

Aquarium Setup & Compatibility

Provide planted edges, shaded retreats, and open swimming space. Glowlite Tetras do best in a fully cycled aquarium with stable water conditions and gentle to moderate circulation. Floating plants, driftwood, and a darker background help them feel secure and highlight their glowing stripe. Use a secure lid and avoid abrupt changes in temperature or water chemistry.

Good companions include peaceful small tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras species with compatible care requirements. Plant-safe snails and adult dwarf shrimp may coexist, though tiny shrimplets can be eaten. Avoid aggressive or overly boisterous fish, persistent fin-nippers, and larger fish that could swallow them. Ensure these gentle feeders are not consistently outcompeted by faster tankmates.

Feeding

Feed Hatchery Diet 1.2 mm, supplemented with Daphnia and Bloodworms. Crush pellets or cut larger bloodworms into smaller pieces as needed to fit their small mouths. Offer small portions and ensure newly introduced or shy fish have a chance to eat.