Penguin Tetra (Obliqua)

Penguin Tetra (Obliqua) (Thayeria obliqua) is the original species with the Penguin Tetra name — the bold black stripe runs obliquely from the lateral line through the lower caudal lobe, and like all Thayeria the fish adopts a characteristic tail-down resting posture at 45 degrees. The species name obliqua directly references this oblique angle.

Feeding & Care Tip: Sera Vipan Tropical Flakes and Hikari Micro Pellets make excellent daily staples. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp, or Hikari Vibra Bites. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Native to the upper Amazon in Brazil — the Marajó and surrounding drainages. Soft, slightly acidic water.

Keep in groups of at least 8. The synchronized oblique posture of a resting school is immediately distinctive. Peaceful and hardy community tetra.

The obliqua species shares the same remarkable penguin posture as its relatives.

Care & Ideal Parameters