Sailfin Tetra (Crenuchus spilurus) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 30 gallons and 75-82°F. A tetra relative with a long sail-like dorsal fin and a dark tail spot. It prefers soft, acidic, tannin-tinted water with plenty of cover and gentle tankmates.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Crenuchus spilurus |
|---|---|
| Family | Crenuchidae |
| Origin | Guianas and Amazon basin, South America |
| Adult size | 3 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 5.0-7.0 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, males can squabble |
| Social behavior | Small groups or pairs |
| Swim level | Mid to lower |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: small frozen and live foods, micro pellets |
| Typical lifespan | 5-6 years |
Quick tips
- Use plants, wood and subdued light.
- Keep water soft and clean.
- Males may display at each other; give hiding spots.
San Diego water
Prefers softer, more acidic water than San Diego's tap (pH roughly 7.6-8.6, hard). Most keepers blend tap with RO/DI water or use a remineralized RO/DI supply. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi