Copper Congo Tetra
Copper Congo Tetra
Copper Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus) displays a warm copper to bronze iridescent sheen — the scales shift toward warm copper-gold tones rather than the cooler blue-green of the standard Congo Tetra. Males still develop full flowing fin extensions.
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 the Congo River basin — one of the deepest and most biodiverse river systems in the world, with unique conditions driving the evolution of many extraordinary species. Congo Tetras inhabit the middle and upper water layers of slow-moving rivers and tributaries with soft, slightly acidic water.
Males develop spectacular fin extensions as they mature — the dorsal fin becomes dramatically tall and flowing, the caudal fin develops extended central rays, and the entire body develops a shifting iridescent sheen that changes with light angle. The full male display is one of the most impressive fin developments in any small freshwater fish. Keep in groups of at least 6 with more females than males.
The Congo Tetra group represents the finest African tetras available — large, peaceful, spectacular in adult male coloration.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — active community |
| Typical Adult Size | 3.5 inches (9 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 6 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 73–82°F (23–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 3–12 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–6 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 | Congo River basin, Democratic Republic of Congo |
| Notes | Copper-bronze iridescent sheen. Males develop fin extensions. Same Congo River origin. |
