Yellow Flame Tetra

The Yellow Flame Tetra, also known as the Yellow Tetra or Two-banded Tetra, is a modest but genuinely attractive species from the coastal river drainages of Brazil. While it lacks the intense, saturated colors of some of its more flamboyant Hyphessobrycon relatives, it possesses a warm, golden-yellow body tone accented with two faint dark vertical bars behind the gill cover, giving it a distinctive enough appearance to stand out in a diverse community tank. The fins carry a soft golden hue that matches the body, and males develop more intense color than females. In a planted aquarium with dark substrate and warm lighting, the yellow-gold tones glow with a surprisingly rich warmth. The Yellow Flame Tetra is one of the hardiest in its genus, tolerating a wide temperature range including slightly cooler conditions that many tropical species would find stressful. This makes it suitable for unheated or lightly heated setups in temperate climates. It is peaceful, active, and unfussy about food, making it an ideal beginner species for community aquariums. Compatible with virtually all non-aggressive species of similar size.

Tank Setup A 60-liter aquarium suits this species well. Use dark substrate and plant the tank generously with green plants to provide contrast for the yellow body. Warm-spectrum lighting enhances the golden tones. Leave open swimming corridors in the midwater zone.

Water Parameters pH 5.5–7.5, temperature 20–26°C, general hardness 2–15 dGH. Notably adaptable and tolerant of cooler conditions. Suitable for unheated setups in temperate climates during warmer months.

Feeding An undemanding omnivore that accepts flakes, micro-pellets, and all common frozen and live foods. Feed twice daily in small portions. A varied diet including protein-rich supplements maintains golden coloration.

Tankmates Peaceful with virtually all non-aggressive community species. Good companions include other tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and peaceful loaches. Avoid aggressive or predatory species.

Schooling Keep a minimum of six. Groups of eight to twelve display the most natural behavior.

Health and Maintenance One of the hardier Hyphessobrycon species. Regular weekly water changes of 25–30% maintain excellent health. Resistant to most common freshwater ailments under stable conditions.