Description
Overview:
The Red Line Lizard Tetra is a sleek, fast-moving, and uniquely patterned schooling fish that brings energy and elegance to planted community aquariums. With its slender, torpedo-shaped body, metallic silver flanks, and a vibrant red stripe running from the snout through the eye to the mid-body, this species offers a subtle yet striking contrast in a natural setup.
Origin:
Native to clearwater rivers of the Amazon Basin, particularly in Brazil and Peru, Iguanodectes geisleri inhabits slow-to-moderate flow streams, often among submerged vegetation and root systems.
Feeding:
Omnivorous and easy to feed. Offer a diet of high-quality micro pellets or flakes, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They appreciate finely crushed plant-based foods as well.
Tank Mates:
Very peaceful and social, perfect for planted community tanks. Best kept in groups of 6 or more. Ideal companions include small tetras, rasboras, pencilfish, Apistogramma, Corydoras, and peaceful dwarf gouramis.
Water Parameters:
-
Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
-
pH: 6.0–7.2
-
Soft to moderately hard water
-
Minimum Tank Size: 20–30 gallons
-
Enjoys planted tanks with open swimming space and gentle flow
Behavior & Personality:
-
Active mid-water swimmers
-
Thrive in groups—schooling behavior reduces stress and enhances color
-
Non-aggressive and ideal for peaceful, natural-style aquascapes
Special Notes:
-
Best coloration is seen in mature fish and well-maintained tanks
-
Use dim or natural lighting to enhance red stripe and body sheen
-
Rarely found in mainstream pet stores—a unique choice for nano-biotope or South American setups
The Red Line Lizard Tetra is an understated gem for hobbyists looking to add a refined, energetic shoaling fish to a peaceful freshwater aquarium. Its slender build, flashing red line, and smooth movement make it a favorite for nature-style aquascapes and softwater communities.
