Diamond Tetra ( Moenkhausia pittieri )

Diamond Tetra (Moenkhausia pittieri) — The Sparkling Jewel of the Planted Aquarium

The Diamond Tetra (Moenkhausia pittieri) is one of the most dazzling schooling fish in the freshwater hobby. Native to Lake Valencia and surrounding rivers in Venezuela, this medium-sized tetra earns its name from the extraordinary iridescent scales that cover its body — each one catching and reflecting light like a faceted diamond, creating a shimmering, prismatic display that shifts from silver to gold to violet as the fish moves through the water.

A Fish That Rewards Good Lighting

The Diamond Tetra is a fish that truly comes alive under quality aquarium lighting. In a well-lit planted tank, a school of Diamond Tetras produces a breathtaking sparkling effect — the entire school glittering and flashing as they turn and school together. Males develop particularly impressive finnage as they mature, with elongated dorsal and anal fins that add an elegant, flowing quality to their already spectacular appearance.

Care Profile

• Scientific Name: Moenkhausia pittieri
• Origin: Venezuela (Lake Valencia basin)
• Size: Up to 5–6 cm
• Temperament: Peaceful; best kept in schools of 8 or more
• Diet: Omnivore — accepts flake food, micro pellets, frozen daphnia, and baby brine shrimp
• Water Temperature: 24–28°C
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Tank Size: Minimum 80 cm / 80L to accommodate adult size and schooling space
• Note: Males develop elongated fins with age — provide ample swimming space and avoid fin-nipping tankmates

Aquascape Compatibility

Completely plant-safe and peaceful with most community fish. Diamond Tetras are best showcased in planted aquariums with open mid-water swimming space, quality lighting, and dark substrates that maximise the contrast of their sparkling scales. An excellent choice for Nature Aquarium layouts, Venezuelan biotope setups, and any tank where visual drama and shimmer are a priority.

Every scale a diamond, every movement a flash of light — the Diamond Tetra is the sparkling centrepiece your aquascape deserves.