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The Red Eye Tetra (Moenkhausia sanctaefilomenae) is a vibrant and active shoaling fish, renowned for its striking appearance and peaceful demeanor, making it a fantastic addition to most community aquariums. Originating from the Amazon River basin in South America, these hardy tetras are easily identified by their silvery bodies, often with a subtle iridescence, and their most prominent feature: a bright, cherry-red spot at the top of their eye, which gives them their common name. They also display a distinctive black spot at the base of their caudal fin, bordered by white, adding to their visual appeal. Growing up to 2.5-3 inches, Red Eye Tetras thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of open swimming space. They are best kept in groups of at least six or more to encourage their natural shoaling behaviors and reduce stress, ensuring they feel secure and display their full range of colors. Ideal water parameters include a temperature range of 72-79°F (22-26°C), a pH of 6.0-7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. They are omnivorous and will readily accept high-quality flake food, micro-pellets, and a variety of frozen or live foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp, which helps maintain their health and color vibrancy. Their active nature and non-aggressive disposition make them excellent tank mates for other peaceful community fish of similar size, such as other tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and dwarf cichlids. With proper care and a suitable environment, Red Eye Tetras can live for 5-7 years, providing a dynamic and beautiful display in any freshwater setup.