Costae Tetra

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About the Costae Tetra

The Costae Tetra (Moenkhausia costae) is a peaceful and active South American schooling fish from Brazil. It has a sleek silver to golden body with subtle iridescence and a distinctive dark marking running along the rear of the body and into the tail.

A relatively underrated tetra, the Costae is an excellent choice for community aquariums where its constant movement and schooling behaviour can really shine. It is hardy and adaptable once established, making it suitable for both newer and experienced aquarists.

Keep them in a group of at least 6–8, with larger schools producing more natural behaviour and a more impressive display. They look particularly good against planted backgrounds with open swimming space.

They are omnivorous and readily accept quality flakes, micro pellets and appropriately sized frozen foods.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Moenkhausia costae
• Common Name: Costae Tetra, Costa's Tetra
• Family: Characidae
• Type: Freshwater Schooling Fish
• Adult Size: Approximately 5–7 cm
• Temperament: Peaceful, active
• Care Level: Easy
• Minimum Aquarium: 60–75 L
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Diet: Omnivore
• Tank Level: Middle
• Group Size: 6+
• Origin: Brazil, South America
• Breeding: Egg scatterer

Frequently Asked Questions

How big does the Costae Tetra get?

They can reach approximately 5–7 cm as adults.

How many Costae Tetras should I keep?

Keep them in a group of at least 6, although 8–12 or more is preferable for stronger schooling behaviour.

Are Costae Tetras peaceful?

Yes. They are generally peaceful community fish, although their active nature means they are best kept with other similarly sized and active species.

What do Costae Tetras eat?

They accept quality flakes, micro pellets and granules, with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms providing useful variety.

Are they suitable for planted aquariums?

Yes. Their metallic body colouration contrasts beautifully against green plants, while dense vegetation provides security around the edges of the aquarium.

Can they be kept with other tetras?

Absolutely. They make excellent companions for other peaceful South American tetras and similarly sized community fish.

Common Mistakes

• ❌ Keeping them individually or in a very small group
• ❌ Housing them with aggressive fish
• ❌ Overcrowding the aquarium
• ❌ Feeding food that is too large
• ❌ Allowing water quality to deteriorate
• ❌ Providing too little open swimming space