Serpae Tetras Not Schooling

[Inkling]

Hello All,

I have 6 serpae tetras in a 45L with 2 platies and 2 swordtails. At first they schooled around the tank and now they have basically just divided the tank into 6 sections and live there by themselves. They do not bother the platies or swordtails at all and only occassionally spat over territory. What does this mean? Should I add more tetras to get them to group up more?

Thanks

 

[Lateral Line]

What you have seen is perfectly normal behaviour. When first introduced they are stressed by the move and school up because they are frightened. After a while, they work out there is no threat then do their own thing. Schooling is a defensive strategy adopted when fish feel threatened.