Red Fin Penguin Tetra
Red Fin Penguin Tetra
Red Fin Penguin Tetra (Thayeria sp.) is the red-finned Penguin Tetra variant — combining the distinctive oblique tail-down swimming posture and bold black lateral stripe of Thayeria with particularly vivid red to orange-red fin coloration. The 'penguin' swimming posture — head up, tail angled down at 45 degrees at rest — is one of the most distinctive behaviors of any aquarium fish.
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.
From the Teles Pires drainage of Brazil, this red-finned form shares soft, slightly acidic water requirements with other Thayeria species.
Keep in groups of at least 8. The synchronized oblique posture of a resting school of Penguin Tetras is immediately recognizable and unusual. The red fins add color to an already distinctive fish.
A great combination of unusual behavior and vivid color.
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 | Rio Teles Pires, Brazil (Tapajós drainage) |
| Notes | Red-finned Thayeria form. Oblique penguin swimming posture distinctive. Bold black lateral stripe. |
