Amapa Tetra

Adults reach a length of 2 to 3 cm. Sexual dimorphism in these fish is weakly expressed; males and females are very similar in appearance. Their coloration is predominantly gray, with a silvery belly. A characteristic feature is a narrow, red-and-white horizontal stripe running from head to tail, beneath which a thin black dash is located.

Its origin is associated with South America, where it is found in limited areas of the Brazilian state of Amapá, located in the east of the country, near the Amazon delta. The fish inhabits small rivers and streams that flow through savanna pastures. These bodies of water are characterized by clear, light brown water, and their bottom is covered with sand or gravel.

This peaceful schooling fish prefers to be in a group of its kind, with a minimum number of 8–10 individuals. It is perfectly compatible with other non-aggressive species of similar size.

For a school of 8–10 Amapa Tetras, an aquarium volume of 40–50 liters will be optimal. The fish looks most harmonious in an setup that mimics its natural habitat. Such an setup includes decorative elements like a sandy substrate, driftwood, and aquatic plants, including floating ones. Although not mandatory, dried leaves from certain trees, placed on the substrate, can be a beneficial addition. They serve not so much a decorative function as they contribute to the formation of water chemistry similar to natural bodies of water. As they decompose, the leaves release tannins, which act as natural antimicrobial and antifungal agents, positively impacting the health of the aquarium ecosystem. Success in long-term keeping of the Amapa Tetra largely depends on maintaining stable water parameters within acceptable ranges of temperature and hydrochemical indicators. This is achieved through the effective operation of the filtration system and other equipment, as well as regular standard aquarium maintenance procedures. These procedures include weekly partial water changes with fresh water, timely removal of organic waste (food remnants, excrement), leaf replacement, and preventive equipment maintenance.

This omnivorous species is not demanding about food and successfully adapts to feeding exclusively on dry foods, such as flakes or granules. However, live or frozen foods, such as Daphnia, Artemia, and bloodworms, will be a significant addition to their diet.

Breeding the Amapa Tetra is considered easy, and under favorable conditions, the fish can regularly produce offspring. In an artificial aquarium environment, there is no seasonal breeding, so the fish can be ready to spawn throughout the year. Typically, in a large school, one or more females are constantly ready to spawn. They do not have developed parental instincts, and there is no care for the offspring; moreover, adults may feast on their own eggs and fry. To preserve the brood, it should be moved to a separate tank with identical water conditions, where the newborn fish will spend the first few months of life until they grow to a sufficient size.

Cottelata brittani is a hardy and undemanding fish. When suitable keeping conditions are met, health problems usually do not arise. Diseases can appear in cases of injury, contact with already sick fish, or a significant deterioration of habitat parameters (for example, in a dirty aquarium or with poor nutrition). More detailed information on symptoms and treatment methods can be found in the section "Diseases of aquarium fish."

When choosing Amapa Tetras, pay attention to the activity and appearance of the individuals. Healthy fish should have clean fins without signs of damage, coatings, or sores, as well as even scales without spots. It is important to check the condition of their eyes: they should be clear, without cloudiness. Avoid purchasing fish with deformed spines or signs of emaciation, where the belly appears severely sunken.

Assess the behavior of the school in the store: healthy tetras should swim actively, display vibrant coloration, and react quickly to external stimuli. Lethargic fish that stay near the water surface or, conversely, constantly lie on the bottom, may be a sign of stress or illness. It is recommended to purchase a group of 8–10 individuals at once, as solitary keeping causes severe stress in this species, negatively affecting their immunity and lifespan.