False Penguin Tetra
False Penguin Tetra
False Penguin Tetra (Thayeria boehlkei) is the most widely available Penguin Tetra — the bold black stripe runs diagonally from the body through the lower caudal lobe, and like all Thayeria it adopts a characteristic oblique tail-down resting posture that is unmistakable and unlike any other tetra. Named for ichthyologist James Böhlke who did extensive work on South American characins.
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 Peru and Ecuador — slow to moderately flowing rivers with soft, slightly acidic water. More widely available than other Thayeria species.
Keep in groups of at least 8. The synchronized oblique resting posture of a school of Penguin Tetras at rest is an immediately recognizable behavior that catches the eye of every aquarium visitor. Peaceful and hardy.
An excellent and distinctive community tetra — the penguin posture creates a school with personality unlike any other.
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, Peru and Ecuador |
| Notes | Boehlkei — named for ichthyologist James Böhlke. Most available Thayeria. Oblique tail-down resting posture distinctive. Bold diagonal black stripe. |
