Red Eye Tetra
Red Eye Tetra
Red Eye Tetra (Arnoldichthys spilopterus) is West Africa's answer to the Congo Tetra — a large, impressive African characin with a silver to olive-gold body carrying an iridescent sheen, a bold dark shoulder spot, and the vivid red upper eye that gives this species its name. Males develop longer, more pointed dorsal fin extensions than females. Often called the African Red Eye Tetra to distinguish it from the South American Red Eye Tetra.
Feeding & Care Tip: Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes and Hikari Micro Pellets make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.
Native to coastal rivers of West Africa — Nigeria, Ghana, and surrounding areas. The red upper eye is caused by a pigmented iris — a genuine physical feature rather than iridescence.
Keep in groups of at least 6. Active and peaceful with other medium to large community fish. Compatible with other West African species.
An excellent large community tetra for aquarists building an African-theme aquarium. More widely adaptable to water conditions than most South American tetras.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — active community |
| Typical Adult Size | 3.0 inches (7.5 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 6 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 72–82°F (22–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 5–18 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 2–10 dKH |
| Staple Food | Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Vibra Bites; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Coastal West Africa — Nigeria, Ghana, and surrounding areas |
| Notes | Arnoldichthys spilopterus — West African, not Congo basin. Red upper iris — genuine pigmented iris. Males have extended dorsal fin. Also called African Red Eye Tetra. |
