African Tetra Care Guide
The African Tetra (Arnoldichthys spilopterus) is a colourful and active freshwater fish popular among UK aquarists. Sometimes known as Arnold's Tetra, this species is prized for its shimmering silver body, colourful fins, and peaceful shoaling behaviour.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about African Tetra care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, feeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about African Tetras
African tetras are native to rivers and floodplains in West Africa. Unlike the more familiar South American tetras, they are larger, more robust fish that develop attractive red, yellow, and black markings on their fins as they mature.
They are energetic schooling fish that thrive in spacious community aquariums.
Arnoldichthys spilopterus
7-10 cm
Nigeria, Benin, and surrounding West African regions
120L (30gal)
5-8 years
Peaceful, active, schooling
23-28°C
Omnivore (flakes, pellets, frozen and live foods)
6.0-7.5
£4-£10 per fish
How Many African Tetras Should You Keep?
African tetras are schooling fish and should always be kept in groups.
- A minimum group of 6-8 is recommended
- Larger shoals encourage natural behaviour and stronger colouration
- Groups of 10 or more create an impressive display
Keeping too few can result in:
- Nervous behaviour
- Reduced colouration
- Increased stress
They are most confident when kept in sizeable schools.
Ideal Tank Conditions for African Tetras
Providing the right environment helps African tetras remain healthy and display their best colours.
- Tank Setup: Spacious aquarium with open swimming areas
- Substrate: Dark substrate helps enhance colours
- Plants & Decor: Driftwood, hardy plants, and open areas for schooling
- Water Conditions: Clean, stable freshwater
- Filtration & Flow: Moderate filtration with gentle to moderate flow
- Lighting: Moderate lighting
They appreciate well-oxygenated water and regular maintenance.
Compatibility with Other Fish
African tetras are peaceful and make excellent community fish.
- Good Tankmates: Congo tetras, rainbowfish, corydoras catfish, synodontis catfish, pearl gouramis, and peaceful cichlids such as keyhole cichlids
- Avoid: highly aggressive fish and very small nano species
Their larger size makes them suitable for a wider range of tankmates than many smaller tetra species.
Are African Tetras Easy to Care For?
African tetras are easy to moderately easy to care for and suitable for beginners with medium-sized aquariums.
They require:
- Good water quality
- Proper shoal sizes
- Plenty of swimming space
- A varied diet
They are generally hardy and adaptable once established.
African Tetra Price in the UK
In the UK, African tetras typically cost between £4-£10 per fish.
Prices vary depending on:
- Size and maturity
- Availability
- Shop vs hobbyist sellers
Adult fish with full colouration often command higher prices.
Where to Buy African Tetras in the UK
African tetras are available from specialist tropical fish retailers and some larger aquarium shops.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Allow you to inspect health and colouration
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell African Tetras?
Yes - African tetras are occasionally bred and sold by hobbyists.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of shipping
- Connects you with local aquarists
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding African Tetras
African tetras are omnivorous and enthusiastic feeders.
Key Tips
- Feed high-quality flakes or small pellets
- Supplement with frozen bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp
- Offer occasional live foods
- Feed small portions 1-2 times daily
A varied diet helps maintain strong colours and overall health.
Common Problems with African Tetras
Faded colours, often caused by:
- Poor diet
- Stress
- Poor water quality
Nervous behaviour, linked to:
- Small shoal sizes
- Lack of swimming space
Disease outbreaks, caused by:
- Inconsistent maintenance
- Poor water conditions
- Sudden parameter changes
Why African Tetras Are So Popular
- Beautiful fin colouration
- Peaceful schooling behaviour
- Hardy and adaptable
- Excellent for larger community aquariums
- Less common than many South American tetras
When kept correctly, African tetras provide constant activity and flashes of colour that make them an attractive addition to freshwater aquariums.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most adults reach between 7-10 cm in length.
No, they are peaceful schooling fish that do well in community aquariums.
At least 6-8, though larger groups are strongly recommended.
At least 120 litres, with plenty of swimming space and a suitable shoal.
Looking to Buy or Sell African Tetras Locally?
TankMate UK connects fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're building a vibrant community aquarium or looking to rehome fish responsibly, you can:
- Browse fish available near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right fish for your aquarium.