Description
Physical Characteristics
- Size: They typically grow to 1.2-1.4 inches (3-3.5 cm) in length.
- Appearance: They have a striking color pattern with bright, varied colors and a distinctive lateral stripe that gives them their name.
Habitat Requirements
- Tank Size: A minimum of 5 gallons is recommended for a small group.
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 68-79°F (20-26°C)
- pH: 4.0-7.0
- Water Hardness: Suitable for slightly acidic to neutral water
- Aquarium Setup: They prefer slow-moving waters with plenty of plants and hiding spots. They thrive in still or slow-moving waters, so a gentle current is ideal.
Behavior and Diet
- Behavior: They are peaceful and social, often swimming close to the glass and being very curious. They are top-level dwellers and will lay in wait for prey.
- Diet: They are carnivores and prefer live foods such as fruit flies, chopped-up bloodworms, and tiny invertebrates. They may not readily accept dry food