Disk Tetra
Published August 6, 2019
Author: Mike - FishLore Admin
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The Disk Tetra (Myloplus schomburgkii) can attain a very large size as adults, reaching up to 16 inches (42 cm)! You need a very large tank if you plan on keeping them.
These Disk Tetras are known to have a strong bite (ref: fishbase - "Has powerful dentition that can cause serious bites.") so use caution when working around larger adults.
Most hobbyists should just take a pass on this fish if you see them in the store given their potential adult size.
Disk Tetra Care
Scientific Name : Myloplus schomburgkii
Common Names : Disk Pacu, Black Band Myleus, Pampano
Care Level : Easy
Size : up to 16 inches (42 cm)
Water Parameters : pH 5 - 7 | Temperature : 73°F - 80°F (23°C - 27°C)
Lifespan : 8 to 10 years, likely longer
Origin / Habitat : South America, Amazon River basin, Nanay River, upper Orinoco River basin
Temperament / Behavior : The Disk Tetra gets big and needs to be kept with similar sized species in a large aquarium.
Breeding : Open water / substratum egg scatterers. (ref: fishbase)
Aquarium Size : 200 gallons or much larger recommended given their potential adult size and because they are a schooling fish
Tank Mates : Keep them with similar sized fish species with similar water requirements.
Diet / Foods : In the wild they eat smaller fish, crustaceans, snails, fruits, etc. Get them on a high quality pellet food (like new life spectrum) and supplement with live or thawed freshwater fish foods.
Tank Region : Middle to lower levels.
Gender : Not sure how to tell males from females.
Photo Credit : Photos copyright JJPhoto.dk
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More Tetra Fish Profiles
Red Colombian Tetra
Another medium sized tetra that can get aggressive with other species
Red Eye Tetra
Another tetra that has been known to nip a fin or two or three. Use caution when selecting tank mates.
Rummy Nose Tetra
These tetras have red heads that can change colors depending on environmental stressors.
