Pinktail Chalceus (Chalceus macrolepidotus) CareSheet

The Pinktail Chalceus is a bigger, more colorful characin that may be found in most of the Amazon and Orinoco basins. They are sturdy and long-lived in the aquarium, but if not housed in a group of three or more fish, they may be nervous and shy. These tetras are an excellent dither fish for medium-sized South American Cichlids due to their size and assertive temperament. Because they are easily disturbed and inclined to leap out if given the chance, their tank should be kept closely covered.

Origin: Wild Colombia
Locale: Orinoco Basin
Diet: Omnivore and micropredator, will accept almost all frozen and prepared foods
Adult Size: 7"
Recommended Tank Size: 50 gallons
Compatibility: Peaceful, but may intimidate smaller or slower-swimming tankmates. Best kept with larger, fast moving fish. May nip fins on certain tankmates.
Preferred Water Parameters
pH: 6.5 - 7.2
Temp: 76-82F
Ammonia: 0ppm
Nitrite: 0ppm
Nitrate: 30ppm