Penguin Tetra (Waddle of 6)
The more of these tetras that are put together in a school, the more the group resembles a group of Antarctic penguins. And since a group of penguins is called a waddle, so is ours.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Thayeria boehlkei |
|---|---|
| Origin | Amazon basin (Peru, Brazil) |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | Up to 2½” |
| Lifespan | 5–8 years |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Water Temperature | 72–80°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
FAQ
What is the ideal water temperature for Penguin Tetras?
The ideal water temperature for Penguin Tetras is between 72°F and 80°F.
Are these fish suitable for a community tank?
Yes, Penguin Tetras are peaceful and make good additions to a community tank with similarly sized, non-aggressive fish.
How many fish should be kept together for best behavior?
A group of at least 6 is recommended to see the full ‘waddle’ effect and promote natural schooling behavior.
Sally Hemmings –
I bought a group of six Penguin Tetras and they’ve been thriving in my 20-gallon tank. They swim together in a coordinated way that’s both fun to watch and calming. Easy to care for and don’t stress other fish. Water parameters are stable with regular maintenance.
Gabrielle Dyer –
The fish are active and colorful. I noticed they form a nice school when kept in groups. They eat a mix of flakes and sinking pellets. The peaceful nature makes them great for a beginner aquarium.
Warren Nolan –
After a few weeks, the school looks like a real waddle. They’re hard to miss and add a lot of visual interest. I keep them with neon tetras and they coexist well.