Long-Finned African Tetra, (Brycinus longipinnis) — 4,5-5cm

Overview

The Brycinus longipinnis, widely known as the Long-Finned African Tetra, is a sleek West/Central African characin reaching just 3.5 cm while delivering elegant finnage and lively schooling behavior. Requiring minimum 60-litre aquarium and moderate care, this peaceful omnivore suits aquarists seeking active African schooling fish for community setups. Native to freshwater rivers and floodplain waters across West and Central Africa, this species thrives in groups displaying constant movement. Available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this african tetra brings authentic African character and graceful movement to community aquariums, rewarding keepers who maintain proper schools with spectacular displays of coordinated swimming and elegant long finnage.

Appearance

Displays streamlined, torpedo-shaped body with notably elongated finnage—particularly dorsal and anal fins—giving rise to "Long-Finned" common name. Base coloration typically silvery with iridescent highlights and subtle darker markings. Males develop more pronounced fin extensions and slightly more intense coloration than females. The 3.5 cm adult size combined with elegant proportions and flowing fins creates graceful presence. The extended finnage creates visual drama during schooling displays as groups move in coordinated patterns throughout aquarium.

Natural Habitat

Inhabits freshwater rivers and floodplain waters across West and Central Africa. These environments feature warm water (22-28°C), moderate pH (6-7.5), with seasonal variations between clear and turbid conditions. Occupies midwater zones in schools, feeding on small invertebrates, insects, and organic matter. The schooling behavior provides predator defense through numbers and confusion, while active swimming allows exploitation of food resources across broad areas. Seasonal flooding creates dynamic habitats with varying conditions requiring adaptability.

Aquarium Setup

Minimum 60-litre aquarium provides space for proper school. Create aquascape balancing open swimming areas with planted sections or driftwood providing visual security. This active species requires substantial open swimming space—avoid excessive decorations limiting movement. Hardy plants tolerate the species' active swimming. Fine sand or smooth gravel substrate. Efficient filtration 5-6x turnover. Secure tight-fitting lid essential—active swimmers prone to jumping, particularly when startled or during spawning behavior. Moderate lighting. The species' active schooling behavior means spacious aquariums showcase natural movements better than cramped setups.

Water Parameters

Maintain soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to neutral water. Temperatures 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, soft to moderate hardness (5-15 dGH). Weekly 25-30% water changes maintain quality. Ammonia/nitrite 0 ppm, nitrates below 40 mg/L. Species shows reasonable adaptability but stability matters—avoid rapid parameter fluctuations. The moderate care rating reflects need for proper schools and secure covers but relatively forgiving water chemistry requirements compared to specialized species.

Feeding

As omnivore, requires varied nutrition. Quality flakes/small pellets supplemented with frozen/live bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp, insect larvae. Include plant matter/spirulina-based foods ensuring complete nutrition. Feed small portions 2-3 times daily ensuring consumption within minutes. Active metabolism and schooling behavior mean frequent small feedings appropriate. The species' active nature and constant movement mean it competes well for food in community setups.

Behaviour

Displays active peaceful schooling behavior with groups moving constantly throughout aquarium. The species' elegant long fins create visual drama during coordinated swimming. Males may display to each other and females, spreading fins impressively. Shows confident behavior in proper schools, exploring all aquarium areas. The constant activity and graceful swimming make excellent dither fish encouraging shy species to venture into open water. Active swimmers may intimidate very timid species through constant movement but show no actual aggression toward appropriate tankmates.

Tank Mates

Compatible: other small-medium peaceful schooling fish similar size (other African characins, robust tetras, rasboras, danios). Peaceful catfish (Corydoras, small Synodontis). Peaceful loaches similar size. Avoid: very small fish/fry (may be consumed), slow long-finned fish (outcompeted/stressed by activity), aggressive cichlids, fin-nippers, tiny shrimp (predation risk). Best in African community biotopes or mixed peaceful community setups.

Breeding

Breeding uncommon in captivity. If attempted: provide large well-conditioned group, soft slightly acidic water, dense spawning cover (fine-leaved plants/spawning mops). Remove adults post-spawning protecting eggs/fry—parents provide no care and consume offspring. Eggs hatch 24-36 hours, fry free-swimming days later requiring infusoria initially, progressing to baby brine shrimp. Success demands dedication and appropriate conditioning.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co specializes in African characins, offering quality Long-Finned African Tetras for aquarists seeking authentic African schooling fish. Fully acclimatized, health-guaranteed, comprehensive support. Expert guidance on African community biotopes, proper schooling dynamics, compatible tankmates. Order from UK's premier source and experience elegant African tetra movement and graceful long finnage in your aquarium.