Chrysobrycon Tetra

Chrysobrycon hesperus is a slender, elongated characin from the western Amazon tributaries of Peru and Ecuador. Its body carries a subtle golden-silver lateral band that shimmers under good aquarium lighting, and its fins are lightly pigmented with warm tones. A calm, mid-water schooling species, it serves as an ideal dither fish alongside dwarf cichlids and bottom-dwelling South American catfish. Not a showstopper in terms of bold coloration, it provides elegant, flowing movement and a sense of natural activity in the aquarium. Its intermediate care requirements make it a good step up for hobbyists ready to explore less-common South American tetras.

Water: pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 23–27 °C; soft to moderately hard. Tolerant and adaptable. Tank: 70 L minimum; well-planted with open swimming corridors. Good filtration. Feeding: Omnivore; flake, micro-pellets, frozen daphnia, brine shrimp, and cyclops. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; neutral soft water. Moderate difficulty. Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent dither fish for cichlid and catfish community tanks.