Ember Tetra

Hyphessobrycon amandae, the Ember Tetra, originates from the Araguaia River drainage of the Mato Grosso state in Brazil. It is one of the most popular nano fish in the planted aquarium hobby due to its blazing orange-red coloration — which, in a large school in a densely planted tank, resembles a cloud of smoldering embers — combined with its completely peaceful nature and hardiness.

Despite its tiny size (adults rarely exceed 2 cm) it is a remarkably adaptable and easy species. It tolerates a wide range of water parameters and is forgiving of the minor inconsistencies typical of beginner aquariums. In groups of fifteen or more in a nano planted tank its impact is disproportionate to its size.

Feeding with quality micro-pellets, crushed flake, and small frozen invertebrates maintains the vivid colouration. This species is an outstanding first nano tetra for the aquarist entering the planted aquarium world.

Water: 23–28°C, pH 5.0–7.0, soft to medium (GH 1–12, KH 0–6); adaptable. Tank: 40 L minimum; nano planted tank; dark substrate and floating cover enhance colour. Feeding: Micro-pellets, crushed flake, baby brine shrimp nauplii, daphnia, and Cyclops. Breeding: Egg-scatterer in fine plants; condition with live foods; spawns readily. Compatibility: Ideal with other nano fish, small rasboras, corydoras pygmaeus, and dwarf shrimp.