Solar Flare Tetra

Hyphessobrycon heliacus 'Solar Flare' is a specialty selectively highlighted form from the Orinoco and upper Amazon drainages, prized by collectors for its exceptionally vivid colouration. The flanks glow with molten orange-red hues that intensify under the contrast of dark substrate and tannin-stained water, while the dorsal region catches the light with a faint blue-green iridescence.

In the aquarium this tetra performs best in groups of ten or more, where the collective shimmer of a school becomes a striking focal point. Soft, slightly acidic water with good filtration but minimal turbulence mirrors its natural blackwater habitat. Fine-leaved plants, floating cover, and leaf litter complete the biotope effect and help reduce stress.

Feeding is straightforward: high-quality micro-pellets, crushed flake, and small live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp and daphnia are all accepted eagerly. With stable water parameters and a varied diet, this tetra rewards its keeper with consistently brilliant colour.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 5.0–6.8, very soft (GH 1–8, KH 0–4); tannins beneficial. Tank: 60 L minimum; dark substrate, dense planting, floating cover, minimal flow. Feeding: Micro-pellets, crushed flake, baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and micro-worms. Breeding: Egg-scatterer in fine-leaved plants; condition with live foods; remove adults post-spawn. Compatibility: Peaceful with nano tetras, small rasboras, corydoras, and dwarf cichlids.