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
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.
