Penguin Tetra
Thayeria boehlkei
Penguin Tetra (Thayeria boehlkei) — Easy care, Peaceful, under Tetra & Characin. Minimum tank in the app: 19.8 US gal min; aim for 72–82°F and pH 5.5–7.5. The Penguin Tetra is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced aquarists who appreciate active, visually appealing shoalers.

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.
Natural distribution
Mostly South America
- South America
Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.
Penguin Tetra Tank Setup
Create a balanced tank environment with a minimum of 75 liters, incorporating open swimming areas complemented by dense vegetation and driftwood. Soft, dark substrates can enhance their coloration, while moderate lighting helps prevent algae growth. Ensure gentle water flow to mimic their natural habitat and avoid stressing the fish.
What Do Penguin Tetras Eat?
As omnivores, Penguin Tetras thrive on a varied diet of micro foods, including high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen options. They exhibit moderate feeding rates, so ensure food reaches all individuals to avoid competition.
Penguin Tetra Tank Mates
Ideal companions include similarly-sized, peaceful species such as other tetras and small rasboras, which share the mid-swimming zone. Avoid larger, aggressive fish that may intimidate them. Intraspecies, they generally coexist well but should be kept in groups to minimize stress and establish a natural hierarchy.
Are Penguin Tetras Good for Beginners?
In App-aquatic we file this under easy care. That still means a cycled tank, realistic stocking, and parameters that do not swing every weekend. Aquarists often underestimate the importance of group size, leading to stress and reduced activity. neglecting water quality and suitable tank mates can result in aggression or poor health.
Building a community? Run the full list through the stocking calculator before you add anything else.
Log tests and reminders in App-aquatic—free, same data you see here.




