Ornate Tetra

Hyphessobrycon bentosi, the Ornate or Bentos Tetra, is native to the central Amazon basin in Brazil and Guyana. It is a medium-sized, robustly built tetra with a pleasing rosy-pink to salmon body colouration and distinctively extended, flag-like dorsal and anal fins in mature males. The fin tips are white and the body carries a faint dark shoulder marking.

This is a classic aquarium species that has been in the hobby for decades. It is peaceful, hardy, and tolerates a moderate range of water conditions while performing best in soft, slightly acidic water. Groups of eight or more in a planted aquarium produce an elegant, harmonious display.

Feeding is completely uncomplicated with any quality dry food supplemented with regular frozen invertebrates. This species is an excellent mid-sized tetra for aquarists seeking something more unusual than the standard Cardinal or Neon.

Water: 23–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft to medium (GH 3–15, KH 1–7). Tank: 80 L minimum; planted community tank with open swimming area. Feeding: Quality flake, pellets, frozen brine shrimp, bloodworm, and daphnia. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; males develop extended fins at maturity; condition with live foods. Compatibility: Excellent peaceful community fish with all similarly sized species.