Scratched Inpa Tetra (Inpaichthys parauapiranga) - Medium

Inpaichthys parauapiranga, commonly known as the Scratched Inpa Tetra, is a recently described freshwater fish species endemic to Brazil. 

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Taxonomy & Etymology

• Scientific Name: Inpaichthys parauapiranga
• Described: 2024 by Ferreira, Ribeiro, Lima, Silva, Ferreira & Mirande 
• Family: Characidae (Tetras)
• Order: Characiformes
• Etymology: The name parauapiranga comes from the Tupi words paraua (blotch) and piranga (red), referring to its red-striped coloration 

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Natural Habitat

• Location: Tributary of the Rio Canamã in the Rio Aripuanã Basin, Mato Grosso State, Brazil
• Environment: Narrow, shallow streams (~2m wide, ~60cm deep) with clear, slow to moderately flowing water, sandy substrates, and abundant aquatic vegetation 
• Climate: Tropical freshwater

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Physical Characteristics

• Size: Up to 4 cm total length 
• Body Shape: Compressed
• Coloration: Six red-dotted longitudinal stripes along the flanks; narrow dark midlateral stripe; two humeral blotches 
• Fins: Dorsal soft rays: 9; Anal soft rays: 21–24; Adipose fin present 
• Other Features: 3 cusps on largest dentary teeth; no bony rhinosphenoid or conspicuous ethmopalatine cartilage 

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Behavior & Ecology

• Temperament: Peaceful and active; ideal for community tanks 
• Shoaling: Best kept in groups of 10+ to reduce aggression and enhance coloration 
• Diet: Omnivorous—accepts flakes, pellets, and benefits from live/frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp 
• Reproduction: Egg-depositor; breeding is straightforward with proper setup (soft, acidic water, spawning mops or mesh grid) 

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Aquarium Care

• Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
• Water Parameters:
  • pH: 5.5–7.0
  • GH: 3–12
  • Temperature: 22–26°C (73–79°F) 
• Tank Setup: Driftwood, moderate planting, subdued lighting, and excellent water quality are essential