Moenkhausia costae – Signal Stripe Moenkhausia
Moenkhausia costae was first described by Steindachner in 1907. Moenkhausia costae belongs to the family Characidae. The genus name “Moenkhausia“ is named after the American geneticist and ichthyologist William J. Moenkhaus, a colleague of Eigenmann at Indiana University. The species name “costae“ is probably a tribute to the Italian zoologist Oronzo Gabriele Costa.
The species has one synonym: Tetragonopterus costae.
Description
Appearance:
Moenkhausia costae has a slender body with a silvery to green sheen. The head and flanks are semi-transparent. A clearly visible black stripe runs diagonally upwards from the beginning of the anal fin to the tip of the upper fork of the caudal fin. The other fins are mainly transparent. The maximum length is about 7 centimeters.
Differences between sexes:
Males are often smaller and have more vibrant colors than females, with a rounder belly.
Behavior and Temperament:
These fish are peaceful and social, and like to live in schools. They are active swimmers and can cause stress to slower species.
Life expectancy:
They can live up to 5 years in an aquarium.
Biotope
Moenkhausia costae is native to South America, especially Brazil. They live in the rivers São Francisco and Itapicuru. Their natural habitat consists of densely vegetated, shallow waters with many underwater plants. The bottom usually consists of sand or fine gravel. They live in a tropical climate without specific seasonal floods or droughts.
Diet
In the wild:
Moenkhausia costae is omnivorous and eats a variety of foods.
In the aquarium:
They can be fed with high-quality dry food, supplemented with live or frozen food such as brine shrimp and bloodworms. It is advisable not to give too large or aggressive food
The Aquarium
An aquarium of at least 80 centimeters is suitable for a small school. For a larger school, a larger aquarium is recommended. The aquarium should be furnished with plants, floating plants, and open swimming areas. Sand or fine gravel is the best substrate. Suitable water parameters are a temperature of 22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.5, and a GH of 4-10. They can live well with other peaceful species such as other characins.
Breeding aquarium and conditioning
Little is known about successful breeding in aquariums. A special breeding aquarium with soft, slightly acidic water and lots of plants is recommended. It is important to condition the fish well with a varied diet.
The Spawn
During spawning the colors can become more intense. Mating usually occurs in the morning, with the eggs being spread over plants. Several hundred eggs are laid.
Raising the fry
The eggs hatch after 24-36 hours. The fry start to swim freely after 3-4 days. There is no parental care. The first food consists of infusoria and later artemia-nauplii.
Particularities
Moenkhausia costae is rarely found in the trade and is rarely imported. They are suitable for beginners with some experience.
Conclusion
Moenkhausia costae is a beautiful and peaceful fish that is well suited for community aquariums. They are relatively easy to keep, provided the right conditions are provided. Their social and active behavior makes them an interesting addition to any aquarium.
Author
John de Lange
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