The stream of new tetra species shows no signs of slowing down. Among the current “hottest things in town” is this tetra, which grows to about 5 cm in length and has been designated Moenkhausia sp. “Mystic Blue.” The origin of these fish, which were originally imported from Brazil, is still a matter of speculation. There are reports linking them to the Rio Juruena, one of the two headwater rivers of the Rio Tapajós. Several other new tetra species also come from that area. The fish we offer, however, are German-bred specimens. The species has proven to be quite easy to breed.
Their coloration is particularly mystical, as the fish can look quite different depending on their mood and in response to the prevailing lighting conditions. To capture the blue well in the photo, we had to photograph them in the holding tank at our facility. In the photo tank, they displayed more reddish tones. The orange neck spot of Moenkhausia sp. “Mystic Blue” serves as a relatively reliable distinguishing feature from the very similar-looking Hyphessobrycon cyanotaenia and H. melanostichos. The two Hyphessobrycon species mentioned never display this spot. Furthermore, “Mystic Blue”—whose classification within the genus Moenkhausia is, incidentally, questioned by tetra specialist Martin Hoffmann—is much sturdier and has a higher back as an adult, and its blue is a very strikingly bright blue.
There are two color variants of Moenkhausia sp. “Mystic Blue”: one with a red caudal fin and one with a yellow caudal fin. The fish we offer belong to the red-tailed color variant.
Maximum size: approx. 5 cm; Temperature: 22–28°C; pH and hardness: not important for general care (tap water), but should be soft and acidic for breeding; Diet: omnivorous; Social behavior: generally peaceful schooling fish, but needs space; otherwise, males engaged in courtship displays can become a nuisance.
For our customers: These fish are listed under code 269492 on our stock list. Please note that we supply exclusively to wholesalers.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
