Red Eye Coral

Appearance:

• Coloration: The Red Eye Coral typically features a vivid orange to coral-colored body with shades of red or orange, accented by striking red or bright orange eyes. The eye coloration is a standout feature, giving it its name.
• Body Shape: Similar to other platies, it has a laterally compressed body, which makes it streamlined for swimming.
• Tail and Fins: Fins may be slightly elongated, often displaying a similar coral or orange hue that complements the body color.

Size:

• Red Eye Coral fish typically grow to about 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in length, making them suitable for various tank sizes.

Lifespan:

• With proper care, Red Eye Coral fish can live for 3-5 years, although some individuals may live longer under optimal conditions.

Behavior:

• Peaceful and Social: Red Eye Coral fish are known for their peaceful demeanor and social nature, making them ideal for community tanks. They tend to school and enjoy being in groups, which can reduce stress and enhance their vibrant colors.
• Livebearers: They are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. This makes them easy to breed in home aquariums.

Habitat & Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group of Red Eye Corals. Larger tanks (20 gallons or more) are ideal if keeping multiple species or larger groups.
• Water Parameters: They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.8-7.5) and a temperature range of 70-78°F (21-26°C).
• Aquarium Setup: A well-planted aquarium with open swimming areas is ideal. Providing some hiding spots with rocks, driftwood, or dense vegetation will help reduce stress for shy individuals.

Diet:

• Red Eye Coral fish are omnivorous and benefit from a varied diet that includes:
  • High-quality flakes or pellets formulated for tropical fish.
  • Vegetables like blanched spinach or algae wafers.
  • Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms for added protein.

Breeding:

• Easy to Breed: Red Eye Corals are relatively easy to breed. Females can give birth to 20-50 fry every few weeks, depending on their health and age.
• It's beneficial to provide plenty of vegetation for fry to hide in to avoid being eaten by adults.

Tank Mates:

• Red Eye Coral fish are compatible with many peaceful community fish, such as:
  • Guppies
  • Mollies
  • Platies
  • Tetras
  • Corydoras
• Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species that might harm their delicate fins.

Health & Care:

• Generally hardy, Red Eye Coral fish can be prone to common freshwater issues like Ich or fin rot if water quality deteriorates. Regular water changes, proper filtration, and stable water parameters are essential for keeping them healthy.

Temperament:

• These fish are typically peaceful, but males may display some aggression toward each other, particularly in smaller tanks. Maintaining a proper male-to-female ratio (about 1 male to 2-3 females) can help reduce aggression.

Hardiness:

• Red Eye Coral fish are quite hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. They can thrive in various water conditions, provided the environment is stable.