freshwater
Electric Green GloFish (Genetically Modified White Skirt Tetra)
Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
Deep, compressed, diamond-shaped body with a high back profile. It has a long anal fin and a small adipose fin. This specific variant has been genetically modified to display a vibrant, fluorescent blue or purple coloration under standard aquarium lights, derived from fluorescent protein genes.
- Habitat
- Freshwater aquarium species originating from the wild ha…
- Size & weight
- Typically reaches about 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm) in l…
- Diet
- Omnivorous. Feeds on small crustaceans, insects, worms,…
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Physical characteristics
Deep, compressed, diamond-shaped body with a high back profile. It has a long anal fin and a small adipose fin. This specific variant has been genetically modified to display a vibrant, fluorescent blue or purple coloration under standard aquarium lights, derived from fluorescent protein genes.
Habitat & distribution
Freshwater aquarium species originating from the wild habitats of South America, specifically slow-moving streams, tributaries, and rivers in the Amazon basin, Paraguay, and Bolivia.
Behavior
Peaceful, active, and schooling social behavior. Best kept in groups of six or more to reduce nipping and stress. They are diurnal and most active during daylight hours.
Diet
Omnivorous. Feeds on small crustaceans, insects, worms, and plant matter in the wild. In captivity, it readily accepts flake foods, micro pellets, and frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and daphnia.
Reproduction
Egg scatterers. Spawning occurs in dense vegetation where females release adhesive eggs that are fertilized by the male. Parents provide no parental care and may eat the eggs.
Ecological role
In a natural setting, it acts as a small omnivorous predator feeding on insects and zooplankton, while serving as prey for larger fish and birds. In captivity, it occupies mid-water levels.
Similar species
Other tetra species such as the Black Skirt Tetra (its natural counterpart) and White Skirt Tetra, from which it is bred. It can be distinguished immediately by its unnatural, glowing fluorescent coloration.
Identification tips
Recognizable by its distinctive high-backed, deep-bodied tetra shape, flowing fins, and striking, glowing fluorescent coloration that stands out in planted freshwater aquariums.
Interesting facts
GloFish are the world's first genetically engineered animals to be commercialized as pets, originally developed to help detect environmental pollutants by glowing in the presence of specific toxins.