The Serpae Tetra is one of the most vibrantly colored species in the hobby, presenting a deep blood-red to brick-red body with a characteristic black comma-shaped humeral spot and black-edged dorsal fin, giving it a strikingly dramatic appearance. Males in good condition are particularly intense in color. Native to the Amazon and Paraná river systems in Bolivia and Brazil, this species is among the hardiest of all tetras and adapts well to a wide range of aquarium conditions, tolerating both acidic and neutral water with ease. The Serpae Tetra's primary challenge is behavioral: it has a well-earned reputation as a fin-nipper, particularly when underpopulated or housed with long-finned, slow-moving species. In groups of eight or more, aggression is typically diffused within the school and fin-nipping is greatly reduced. It should not be housed with fancy guppies, bettas, angelfish, or other long-finned species. With appropriate tankmates such as other robust, short-finned tetras, barbs, danios, and corydoras, the Serpae Tetra can be an excellent, long-lived community member. Its vivid coloration makes it one of the most visually impactful schooling fish available.
