Penguin Tetra (Obliqua)
Penguin Tetra (Obliqua)
Penguin Tetra (Obliqua) (Thayeria obliqua) is the original species with the Penguin Tetra name — the bold black stripe runs obliquely from the lateral line through the lower caudal lobe, and like all Thayeria the fish adopts a characteristic tail-down resting posture at 45 degrees. The species name obliqua directly references this oblique angle.
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 upper Amazon in Brazil — the Marajó and surrounding drainages. Soft, slightly acidic water.
Keep in groups of at least 8. The synchronized oblique posture of a resting school is immediately distinctive. Peaceful and hardy community tetra.
The obliqua species shares the same remarkable penguin posture as its relatives.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful — schooling community |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 8 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 72–79°F (22–26°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 5–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 2–8 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 | Upper Amazon, Brazil (Marajó drainage) |
| Notes | Obliqua = oblique — refers to tail-down 45° resting posture. Original Penguin Tetra species. Bold oblique black stripe. |
