Lemon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis)

The Lemon Tetra (Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis) is native to the Tapajós River basin in the Brazilian state of Pará — a clear-water river system draining Brazil's central plateau. Despite being described in 1938, it has remained a perennial classic in the aquarium hobby, valued for its understated elegance rather than flashy coloration.

The body is semi-transparent with a warm lemon-yellow flush that intensifies toward the fins and posterior body. The most distinctive feature is the prominent dorsal fin: the first ray and fin membrane display a striking gradient of bright lemon-yellow at the base transitioning to deep black at the tip, with the anal fin showing a bold yellow-black-yellow pattern. The upper portion of the iris is brilliant red — a characteristic that catches the eye immediately when observed closely.

Males in breeding condition develop the most intense lemon-yellow coloration and display the sharpest dorsal fin contrast. Females are more rounded when gravid. Both sexes are moderately transparent, and the internal organs can be faintly visible under bright lighting.

Lemon Tetras are long-lived for their size, with lifespans of 6–8 years reported in well-maintained aquariums. They are peaceful, adaptable, and entirely compatible with the broadest range of community tank species — a quintessential community fish.

Lemon Tetras adapt to a wide range of conditions: pH 5.5–7.5, hardness 3–15 dGH, and temperatures 22–28°C. Like many tetras, soft, slightly acidic water with tannin content produces the most vibrant coloration, but they are forgiving of moderate water parameters.

A minimum 80-liter planted aquarium suits a group of 8–10 well. Provide dense fine-leaved plantings, driftwood, a dark substrate, and moderate lighting for the most natural environment. Open central swimming space allows schooling behavior.

Feed quality flake food, micro pellets, and regular live or frozen supplements: daphnia, baby brine shrimp, cyclops, and small bloodworms. They are adaptable, enthusiastic feeders.

Lemon Tetras are entirely peaceful and compatible with virtually all community species: other tetras, rasboras, corydoras, small catfish, livebearers, gouramis, and peaceful dwarf cichlids. Avoid nippy or aggressive species.

Keep in groups of at least 8 for confident schooling behavior. Groups of 12–15+ display the most impressive collective coloration. Weekly water changes of 25–30% maintain water quality and contribute to the long lifespans possible with this species.