Scratched Inpa Tetra (Inpaichthys parauapiranga) – Tank Bred

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The Scratched Inpa Tetra (Inpaichthys parauapiranga) is a rarely seen and highly attractive relative of the well-known Kerri Tetra. This tank-bred variant showcases a soft peach-to-copper body tone accented by a shimmering blue-violet stripe, giving it a luminous appearance that changes subtly depending on light and background. Peaceful, active, and adaptable, this small schooling fish is perfect for planted community aquariums and biotope-style setups inspired by the clearwater streams of Brazil.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Subtle Iridescence: Peach and rose hues with a faint violet stripe that catches the light beautifully.
• Peaceful Schooling Nature: Ideal for planted or community aquariums with gentle tank mates.
• Tank-Bred Health: Adapted to aquarium life, hardy, and easy to care for.
• Unique and Rare: A seldom-seen species that brings understated elegance to the aquarium.

Natural Habitat:

Inpaichthys parauapiranga originates from the clear, slow-moving forest streams of the Parauapebas River Basin in Pará, Brazil. These waters are rich in submerged roots, leaf litter, and aquatic vegetation. The species was originally documented in these Amazonian tributaries, where it inhabits calm, shaded areas with soft, slightly acidic water. The tank-bred line offered here retains the delicate beauty of its wild counterparts while being well adjusted to home aquariums.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Performs beautifully in densely planted aquariums with species such as Cryptocoryne, Amazon Sword, and Water Sprite.
• Hardscape: Driftwood, leaf litter, and smooth river stones recreate their natural microhabitat.
• Botanicals: Include Indian Almond Leaves or Alder Cones to release natural tannins that enhance coloration and simulate their native waters. Aquatic Arts Botanical Combo Pack is a curated mix of beautiful and beneficial leave litter. 

Diet and Feeding:

The Scratched Inpa Tetra is an omnivore and thrives on a varied, high-quality diet. Offer Ultra Fresh Tropical Micro Pellets – Shrimp Delight Formula as the staple food, supplemented with live or frozen treats such as Moina fleas, daphnia, and brine shrimp. A protein-rich, color-enhancing diet helps maintain their healthy glow and lively schooling behavior.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Peaceful and social, this tetra thrives in groups of six or more. Ideal companions include rasboras, small danios, pencilfish, Corydoras, and dwarf cichlids. Avoid aggressive or large fish that may intimidate them.

Shrimp Compatibility:

Generally safe with adult Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp. Tiny shrimp fry may be eaten, so dense plant cover or moss is recommended for safe cohabitation. Bamboo Shrimp make great tank mates.

Breeding:

Egg-scattering species that spawns in soft, slightly acidic water. Use fine-leaved plants or spawning mops, and remove adults post-spawn to protect eggs. Fry can be raised on infusoria and finely powdered foods.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 74° – 82°F (23° – 28°C)
• pH: 6.0 – 7.5
• KH: 1 – 8 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous; thrives on Ultra Fresh Micro Pellets and live or frozen foods.
• Social Behavior: Peaceful schooling species; best kept in groups of 6 or more.
• Origin: Tank-bred.
• Average Adult Size: 1.5 – 2 inches (3.8 – 5 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 1 – 1.25 inches (2.5 – 3 cm)

Live Arrival Guarantee:
All Aquatic Arts brand animals come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support from our team of aquatic specialists.