Long-finned Tetra
Bryconalestes longipinnis is a fairly large fish, with males developing some truly impressive finnage. It is a native to the western coastal regions of Africa, from Gambia to Democratic Republic of the Congo and Gabon. This species is found in the upper and lower reaches of big rivers and also in estuarine mixohaline waters. It is the only Bryconalestes species also to penetrate small rivers and streams.
This species should be kept in as large a group as possible, 8 specimens is a good minimum number. It makes a great addition to the larger biotope tank. Aquatic and floating plants help to provide a calm environment to the small or slow-moving fishes that might be intimidated by the size and constant activity of Bryconalestes longipinnis.
Adult males develop a long, flowing dorsal fin. They are also slightly larger than females and the anal fin has a characteristic convex profile.
This species eat a wide range of animal and vegetable matter, including insect larvae, crustaceans and some algae.
A breeding should be set up with following water parameters: GH 2-5, pH 6.0-6.5, temperature 24-26°C. This should be dimly lit with floating plants for cover and large amounts of java moss and no substrate. Gentle filtration via a small air-driven sponge filter is suggested.
When the female is mature (ripe and plump), select the best coloured male and fattest female and place them in the breeding tank.
Bryconalestes longipinnis usually adapts well to a variety of foods. For the best condition, feed a mixture of live, frozen and dried varieties. It appears to require a good amount of protein, so offer meaty fare such as chopped earthworm or prawn regularly.
The spawning act has never been recorded but it is probably similar to that of Congo tetras, which involves a lot of chasing by the male. The adult fish should be removed after spawning, as they are avid egg eaters.
First food should be infusoria or liquifry, followed by brine shrimp nauplii or microworm after 2-3 days.
