Tetra Penguin (Thayeria boehlkei)
Thayeria boehlkei is a species of characin fish endemic to the Amazon river basin and Araguaia river, in Peru and Brazil respectively. The species is popular with aquarium hobbyists where it is traded under a variety of common names including blackline penguinfish, blackline thayeria, hockey-stick tetra, penguin fish and penguin tetra.
Key Features
- Native to the Amazon and Araguaia river basins in Peru and Brazil
- Distinctive black line running along the body, giving it a penguin-like appearance
- Active and social fish, suitable for community aquariums
- Thrives in warm, well-oxygenated water with soft to medium hardness
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Thayeria boehlkei |
| Common Names | Blackline penguinfish, Blackline thayeria, Hockey-stick tetra, Penguin fish, Penguin tetra |
| Origin | Amazon River Basin (Peru, Brazil), Araguaia River |
| Size | Up to 3.5 cm (1.4 inches) |
| Water Temperature | 22–28°C (72–82°F) |
| Water pH | 5.5–7.0 |
| Water Hardness | Soft to medium |
| Compatibility | Community tanks with other small, peaceful fish |
FAQ
What is the typical size of a Tetra Penguin (Thayeria boehlkei)?
The typical size of a Tetra Penguin (Thayeria boehlkei) is up to 3.5 cm (1.4 inches).
What kind of water conditions does this fish prefer?
This fish prefers warm, well-oxygenated water with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0 and soft to medium water hardness.
Is the Tetra Penguin compatible with other fish?
Yes, it is compatible with other small, peaceful fish in a community tank.
Megan Taylor –
I bought this Tetra Penguin for my 50-liter community tank. The fish are active and colorful, especially the black line that runs down their bodies. They seem to get along well with my neon tetras and dwarf corydoras. Easy to care for and very lively in the tank.
Faith Butler –
The fish arrived healthy and seem to adapt quickly to the tank. I noticed they swim in groups and are quite curious. The black line pattern is striking and adds a nice visual element to the tank. A good choice for beginners.
Joanne Glover –
I’ve had these Tetra Penguins for three months now. They are peaceful, active, and don’t stress other fish. The water parameters are stable, and they thrive in a well-maintained tank with gentle flow.