Tetra Azulihno (Tyttocharax madeirae) — 1,5-2cm

Overview

The tropical fish for sale UK Tyttocharax madeirae, commonly known as the tetra azulihno, is a tiny, peaceful Amazonian tetra with subtle beauty and specialist appeal. Available through Tropical Fish Co, this rare nano fish is ideal for mature, well-planted aquariums where its diminutive size and delicate nature can be appreciated by experienced aquascapers and nano tank enthusiasts.

Appearance

Tyttocharax madeirae reaches just 1.5–2 cm in length, making it one of the smallest tetras available in the hobby. The body is slender and translucent, with subtle blue iridescence along the flanks and a distinctive dark edge to the caudal fin. Coloration is understated, with pale silver tones and faint markings that catch the light beautifully in planted aquascapes. Males may develop slightly more vivid coloration during breeding condition.

Natural Habitat

This species originates from the Amazon basin in Brazil, where it inhabits slow-moving tributaries, flooded forest areas, and quiet backwaters with dense vegetation, leaf litter, and soft, acidic water. In the wild, T. madeirae feeds on tiny invertebrates, insect larvae, and microorganisms, sheltering among plants and floating vegetation to avoid predators. These environments are typically shaded, stable, and rich in tannins.

Aquarium Setup

Provide a mature, well-filtered aquarium of at least 60 litres with dense planting, floating plants, and plenty of cover. Gentle filtration and low to moderate lighting suit this species well. Use soft, fine substrate (sand or fine gravel) and add driftwood and leaf litter to create a naturalistic, tannin-stained environment. Avoid strong currents, as this tiny tetra prefers calm water.

Water Parameters

Maintain clean, stable water between 22–26°C with a pH of 5.5–7.0. Regular partial water changes (20–30% weekly) and excellent filtration are essential to keep water conditions pristine. This species is sensitive to poor water quality and parameter fluctuations, requiring consistent maintenance. Soft, slightly acidic water is preferred and replicates the fish's natural Amazonian habitat.

Feeding

Tyttocharax madeirae is an omnivore with a preference for tiny live and frozen foods. Offer a varied diet of very fine micro pellets or crushed flakes, supplemented with small frozen and live foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops, and microworms. Feed small amounts multiple times per day, as the fish's tiny stomach capacity requires frequent, small meals. Ensure food is appropriately sized and that faster tankmates do not outcompete the tetra.

Behaviour

This tetra is peaceful, timid, and highly social, spending its time swimming gently among plants and picking at tiny food particles. It is most comfortable in large groups and may become stressed or hide constantly if kept in insufficient numbers. T. madeirae is entirely harmless to tankmates and prefers the calm, shaded, well-planted areas of the aquarium.

Tank Mates

Ideal companions include other very small peaceful characins, small rasboras, pencilfish, dwarf Corydoras, and small peaceful bottom dwellers. Avoid large predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping barbs, large gouramis, and any tankmate large enough to eat them. This species does best in calm, mature, well-planted nano or specialist tanks with gentle, tiny tankmates.

Breeding

Little documented in aquaria; likely a small egg-scattering characin that benefits from soft, acidic water, dense fine-leaved plants or spawning mops, and a separate breeding setup with adults removed after spawning. Eggs are tiny and fry require infusoria or liquid fry food initially, graduating to baby brine shrimp as they grow. Breeding is challenging and best left to experienced breeders.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co UK, we supply healthy, acclimated Tyttocharax madeirae tetras carefully selected for size, health, and vitality. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and conditioned before dispatch, ensuring you receive robust, beautiful specimens ready to thrive in your aquarium. With expert care advice, secure packaging, and a commitment to quality, we make adding this rare and exquisite nano tetra to your collection simple and rewarding. Order today.