Jewel Tetra

Hyphessobrycon callistus, the Jewel Tetra, is native to the upper Paraguay basin and parts of the Amazon. Its deep red body is covered in shimmering iridescent scales that sparkle gold and green under direct light. A close relative of the Serpae Tetra, it shares a similar bold shoulder spot but tends to have a slightly deeper body and equally vibrant coloration. Best appreciated in large schools.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 5.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard water. Tank: 80 L minimum; planted with space to school freely; robust plants preferred. Feeding: Flake, micro-pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp and daphnia. Behaviour: Active schooling fish with mild fin-nipping tendency; keep 10+ to reduce aggression. Compatibility: Best with active, robust tank mates of similar size; avoid slow-finned species.