Gold Tetra
Gold Tetra
Gold Tetra (Hemigrammus rodwayi) earns its name from an extraordinary biological cause — the vivid metallic gold coating on the scales is produced by guanine deposits that develop as the fish's immune response to a specific trematode parasite. Wild fish are infected and turn gold; aquarium fish are parasite-free but have been selectively bred to retain the gold guanine expression. A remarkable case of co-opted immune response becoming an aesthetic trait.
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, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp, or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.
Native to the Amazon basin and Guianas. The gold coloration was scientifically explained when researchers noted that fish infected with sporocysts of a trematode developed the metallic sheen. Aquarium stock is parasite-free but retains the golden expression.
Keep in groups of at least 8. Compatible with all peaceful community fish.
One of the most unusual stories in the hobby — a fish whose beauty originated as a parasite response. The captive-bred Gold Tetra carries the golden sheen without the parasite.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — schooling community |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.0 inches (5 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 8 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 Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp; Hikari Vibra Bites |
| Origin | Amazon basin and Guianas, South America |
| Notes | Gold guanine deposits = immune response to trematode parasite in wild. Aquarium stock parasite-free but retains gold expression via selective breeding. |
