The Penguin Tetra (Thayeria boehlkei) is a peaceful, active freshwater fish known for its distinctive black stripe and unique swimming style. Native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of the Amazon Basin in Brazil and Peru, this species is an excellent choice for community aquariums, adding movement and charm to the tank.
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A Name That Reflects Its Appearance
The “Penguin” name comes from its black stripe, which runs from its eye to the lower half of its tail, resembling a penguin’s coloration. Another unique trait is its angled swimming posture, as it tends to swim with its head slightly raised, giving it an elegant, gliding motion.
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Growth and Tank Requirements
Penguin Tetras reach a maximum size of about 2.5 inches, making them well-suited for mid-sized aquariums. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended, though larger tanks (30+ gallons) are preferred for bigger schools. They thrive in planted tanks with subdued lighting, driftwood, and a gentle current.
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Care and Water Parameters
Penguin Tetras are hardy and adaptable, making them great for beginners. They prefer:
Temperature: 72-80°F
pH Range: 5.5-7.5
Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
A gentle filter with moderate flow helps replicate their natural habitat. Regular water changes and stable conditions are important to maintain their health and vibrant coloration.
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Diet and Feeding
Penguin Tetras are omnivores, thriving on a varied diet of:
High-quality flakes and micro pellets
Live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia
Vegetable-based foods such as spirulina flakes and blanched zucchini
A diverse diet will help maintain their health, color, and activity levels.
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Unique Behaviors
These peaceful, social fish do best in schools of at least 6-8 individuals, as they feel more secure and display natural schooling behavior in groups. They occupy the middle to upper levels of the tank and are active swimmers, making them a lively addition to community setups. They are compatible with other similarly-sized peaceful fish, such as tetras, rasboras, and corydoras.
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Important Considerations
Although hardy and easy to care for, Penguin Tetras do best in well-maintained tanks with stable water conditions. They should not be housed with aggressive or fin-nipping fish, as they thrive in calm, community environments.
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Please note that these are general guidelines, and for more accurate values, we encourage you to contact Living Aquarium by phone or in person. Within store hours, our team of experts are always happy to answer any questions you may have and provide personalized guidance on care.