Rummy Nose Tetra – Hemigrammus Rhodostomus

The Rummy Nose Tetra is a striking freshwater fish known for its vibrant red face and synchronized schooling behavior. Popular in community tanks, these fish add a lively and cohesive dynamic to any aquarium. Their adaptability and peaceful nature make them an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists alike.

Quick Overview

Common Names: Rummy Nose Tetra, Firehead Tetra, Red Nose Tetra
Scientific Name: Hemigrammus Rhodostomus
Popularity: Very popular in community and planted tanks
Adult Size: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm)
Lifespan: 5–6 years
Sexing: Males are slimmer, while females tend to have a rounder belly
Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
pH Range: 5.5–7.0
Water Hardness: 2–12 dGH
Nature: Peaceful, highly social, and excellent schoolers

Natural Habitat & Origin

The Rummy Nose Tetra originates from South America, particularly the Amazon River Basin in Brazil, Venezuela, and Colombia. They are typically found in slow-moving blackwater rivers and floodplains, where the water is soft, slightly acidic, and filled with leaf litter and submerged roots, creating a natural tannin-rich environment.

Appearance & Size

These fish are best known for their bright red nose, which extends slightly beyond their eyes. Their silver body is sleek and streamlined, while their tail fin features a distinctive black and white striped pattern. Juveniles have duller colors, which become more pronounced as they mature. Adults reach around 1.5–2 inches in length.

Tank Requirements

Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (larger for bigger schools)
Preferred Tank Setup: Heavily planted tank with open swimming areas
Substrate and Decorations: Dark sandy substrate, driftwood, and leaf litter to mimic their natural environment
Tank Mate Options: Other peaceful community fish like neon tetras, cardinal tetras, and corydoras
Avoid: Large or aggressive fish like cichlids and fin-nippers such as tiger barbs

Water Parameters & Conditions

Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
pH Range: 5.5–7.0
Water Hardness: 2–12 dGH
Filtration & Oxygenation: Moderate to strong filtration with good oxygenation; prefers clean and well-maintained water
Lighting: Moderate to low, as bright lighting can stress them

Diet & Feeding

Rummy Nose Tetras are omnivores and enjoy a mix of plant-based and protein-rich foods.

Recommended Foods: High-quality micro pellets, flakes, frozen or live bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp
Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times per day in small amounts

Behaviour & Compatibility

Rummy Nose Tetras are one of the best schooling fish, often moving together in perfect synchronization. They are peaceful and thrive in groups of at least 6–10.

Good Tank Mates: Cardinal tetras, harlequin rasboras, dwarf gouramis, and peaceful corydoras
Avoid: Aggressive or territorial fish that may bully them

Breeding

Breeding Rummy Nose Tetras can be challenging but is possible under the right conditions. To encourage spawning, a separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water (pH 5.5–6.5) and a temperature of 80–82°F (27–28°C) is recommended. Fine-leaved plants or spawning mops provide an ideal location for egg-laying.

The female scatters eggs, which the male fertilizes. After spawning, the parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. Eggs typically hatch within 24–36 hours, and the fry can be fed with infusoria or liquid fry food before transitioning to baby brine shrimp.

Common Health Issues & Prevention

Rummy Nose Tetras are sensitive to water conditions, making regular tank maintenance essential.

• Ich (White Spot Disease): Often caused by temperature fluctuations; maintain stable water conditions.
• Fin Rot: Can result from poor water quality; avoid overcrowding and perform regular water changes.
• Stress-Related Fading: Their red nose fades when stressed or sick; a vibrant nose is a sign of good health.

Fun Facts

• Rummy Nose Tetras are considered “living water quality indicators”—if their red nose fades, it may indicate poor water conditions.
• They are one of the tightest schooling fish, making them mesmerizing to watch in large numbers.
• They are long-lived for tetras, with some individuals reaching up to 6 years in well-maintained aquariums.