The Yellow Congo Tetra (Phenacogrammus interruptus – golden/yellow variant) is a vibrant and elegant freshwater species known for its metallic yellow-gold body, long flowing fins, and graceful swimming style. At 4–5cm, this juvenile is already developing the bold coloration and fin extensions that make adult Congo Tetras a centerpiece in any aquarium. A peaceful, active schooling fish, the Yellow Congo variant is less common than the traditional blue-green form, making it a great choice for aquarists seeking something unique yet equally stunning.

Native to the Congo River Basin in Central Africa, these tetras thrive in large, well-maintained community tanks with clean, warm water, dim lighting, and plenty of open swimming space.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Phenacogrammus interruptus (yellow/golden morph)

• Common Names: Yellow Congo Tetra, Golden Congo Tetra

• Size: 4–5cm (juvenile; adults may reach 8–9cm)

• Lifespan: 4–6 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, active, schooling

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

• Origin: Congo River Basin, Central Africa

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more

🌊 Water Conditions

Yellow Congo Tetras prefer clean, soft, slightly acidic water with good circulation and dim light to enhance their shimmering coloration.

• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: 4–15 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (bigger for full-grown adults)

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Filtration: Moderate to strong filtration with good oxygenation

• Lighting: Low to moderate (too much light may wash out their colors)

A setup with dense background plants, driftwood, and plenty of swimming space in the foreground works best.

🐟 Tank Mates

Yellow Congo Tetras are peaceful and social but may nip fins if kept in too small numbers.

Ideal tank mates:

• Other Congo Tetras or peaceful African tetras

• Rainbowfish

• Corydoras

• Peaceful gouramis

• Kribensis (if space allows)

• Peaceful barbs (like Cherry Barbs)

• Larger rasboras or schooling fish

Avoid:

• Long-finned, slow-moving fish (possible fin-nipping if understimulated)

• Aggressive cichlids or predatory species

• Shrimp (may get eaten due to size)

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Yellow Congo Tetras are omnivores with a strong appetite and benefit from a varied diet.

Recommended diet:

• High-quality flakes and floating pellets

• Frozen or live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia

• Freeze-dried options (tubifex, krill)

• Occasional blanched vegetables or spirulina-based food

Feed 1–2 times daily, in small portions they can consume in 2–3 minutes.

🧼 Care and Maintenance

• Weekly water changes (25–30%) to maintain pristine conditions

• Use a secure lid—they may jump if startled

• Avoid sudden parameter changes or high nitrates

• Provide open swimming areas and gentle hiding spots

• Observe for signs of stress or bullying, especially if understocked

They show best coloration and fin growth when kept in larger schools (8+ preferred) and under stable, clean conditions.

🌿 Why Choose the Yellow Congo Tetra?

The Yellow Congo Tetra is a rare gem that combines vibrant color, graceful movement, and peaceful nature. Ideal for larger planted or biotope-style aquariums, this shimmering golden morph brings visual interest and active schooling behavior to community tanks.

Bring elegance and rare beauty to your aquarium—add Yellow Congo Tetras today!