Gold Tetra (Captive Bred)
Hemigrammus rodwayi is an oddity amongst tetras. Captive bred individuals of this species are a drab silver colour, without much in the way of distinctive colour or pattern. However, wild-caught specimens from certain locals have been exposed to parasites, which cause a crystalline substance to build up in their skin, turning them a sparkling metallic gold! Of course, specimens in the aquarium trade are not suffering from parasitic infection; they simply have the colouration from exposure in the wild. These sparkly swimmers are a great gleam of colour for most peaceful community tanks.
These are captive bred, they do not exhibit as much of gold sheen compare to the wild caught ones
| Species | Hemigrammus rodwayi |
|---|---|
| Breeding Type | Captive bred |
| Colour | Drab silver |
| Origin | South America |
| Compatibility | Peaceful community tanks |
FAQ
Do these Gold Tetras have the same gold sheen as wild-caught ones?
No, captive bred Gold Tetras have a drab silver colour and do not exhibit the sparkling metallic gold sheen seen in wild-caught specimens.
Are these fish suitable for a community tank?
Yes, Gold Tetras are peaceful and thrive in community tanks with other non-aggressive fish.
What is the origin of this species?
Hemigrammus rodwayi is native to South America.

Neil Avery –
I bought these Gold Tetras for my community tank and they look nice in the water. They are active and don’t bother other fish. The silver colour is subtle but adds a soft elegance to the tank. Not as flashy as wild-caught ones, but still pleasant to watch.
Liam Walsh –
The fish arrived healthy and seem to be adjusting well. They swim in groups and are easy to care for. I expected more gold, but the silver tone is still attractive in a quiet tank.
Audrey Forsyth –
Great addition to my freshwater setup. They don’t compete for space and stay calm. The captive breeding ensures they’re healthy and free from parasites. A good choice for beginners.