The article in brief
This article details the reproduction of the tetra almondoffering practical advice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. Here are the key points:
- Aquarium preparation: fresh water at 26°C, pH 5.5-6.5, subdued lighting
- Reproduction process: courtship, spawning in open water, parental withdrawal
- Hatching and care of fry: suitable feed, rapid growth
- Tips for success: water quality, choice of breeders, patience and observation
La reproduction of the tetra almond is a fascinating subject for any beginner or experienced aquarist. As a department manager in a pet shop for over 10 years, I've had the opportunity to observe and accompany many enthusiasts in this adventure. Today, I'm going to share my knowledge and experience with you to guide you step by step through the breeding of these little aquatic jewels.
Preparing the aquarium for breeding
To succeed in reproduction of the tetra almondIt is vital to recreate an environment that is conducive to egg-laying. Here are the key points to bear in mind:
Water parameters
The almond tetra appreciates water with very specific characteristics to reproduce:
- Temperature: around 26°C
- pH: between 5.5 and 6.5
- Hardness: very soft, GH less than 5°.
I remember one customer who couldn't get any eggs laid. After checking, his water was too hard. A simple adjustment worked wonders!
Layout of the breeding tank
For a couple or a small group of spruce grouse, an aquarium of 20 to 30 litres is sufficient. Here's how to set it up:
- Dimmed lighting
- Floating plants to create shady areas
- Egg-laying substrate: Java moss or mop
Feel free to add a few blue neon to keep your spruce grouse company outside the breeding season. They'll love this colourful cohabitation!
Broodstock preparation
To stimulate egg-laying, feed your breeders abundantly for 15 days before placing them in the egg-laying tank. A varied, high-quality diet will encourage egg production.
The reproduction process
The reproduction of the tetra almond is a fascinating spectacle. Let me take you through the various stages of this natural process.
Courtship
As with many fish species, almond tetra courtship is a crucial moment. The males, smaller and more colourful than the females, become particularly insistent. They pursue the females, displaying their most beautiful colours to seduce them.
This sexual dimorphism This makes it easy to distinguish males from females, in a similar way to mollys.
Egg-laying and fertilisation
Once the female is ready, spawning takes place in open water. Here are the main characteristics of this stage:
| Features | Detail |
|---|---|
| Mode of reproduction | Oviparous |
| Number of eggs | 10 to 100 per clutch |
| Egg diameter | Approx. 1 mm |
Once the eggs have been laid, the parents must be removed to avoid any risk of cannibalism. I've seen too many reproductions fail because of this mistake!
Hatching and the first days
Eggs generally hatch 24 to 36 hours after being laid, but can sometimes take up to 3-4 days depending on the temperature. Fry and eggs are lucifugic, meaning they avoid light. So remember to keep the lighting in your aquarium subdued.
To feed your young fry, start with infusoria, then gradually move on to freshly hatched artemia nauplia. Fry grow quickly, and you'll be amazed at how much they grow in just a few weeks!
Tips for successful reproduction
After years of advising aquarists, I've been able to identify a few tricks that make all the difference when it comes to successfully breeding almond tetra.
Water quality
Water quality is essential. Don't hesitate to use osmosis water or filtered rainwater to obtain the ideal parameters. A partial daily water change (around 10%) will help maintain optimum quality.
Choice of breeding stock
Select healthy individuals at least 6 months old. Well-rounded females are generally ready to lay eggs. Avoid mixing different species of grouse in the breeding tank to prevent any risk of hybridisation.
Patience and observation
Reproduction of the almond tetra requires patience and observation. Each pair has its own rhythm. Don't hesitate to record your observations in a notebook so that you can improve your techniques over time.
By following these tips, even novice aquarists can successfully breed these magnificent little fish. Don't forget that every experience is unique and rewarding. So give it a go, and who knows, you might just become an expert at breeding almond tetras!
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