Flame Tetra

Introduction

The body shape of this fish is typical of the tetra group,with a high profile tapering evenly to the caudal peduncle.Coloration is pinkish brown with silver.On perfect specimens , two dark bars appear behind the gill cover and extend down to the belly; the lower rear of the body has more red.Pelvic, anal and caudal fins are also red edged with black , and the dorsal fin may be sooty with white streaks.A terminal mouth is situated at the tip of the snout and an adipose fin is present.The female is less red and increases girth when spawning.

Common Name


Red Tetra , Tetra of Rio, Flame Tetra , Von Rio Tetra


Species


Hyphessobrycon Flammeus


Habitat 


Streams and rivers around Rio de Janeiro.

Maximum Size


About  1.75"(4.5cm).


Minimum Tank Size 


A tank measuring at least 18" x 12" x 12" (45cm x 30cm x 30cm) - 42 litres.


Diet 


Easy to feed. It will readily accept just about anything offered.They are Omnivorous , so can eat most of the foods.In the aquarium it proves unfussy. Feed a mixture of dried flakes and granules along with small live and frozen foods.


Water Temperature


72-82°F (22-28°C)


pH


5.5-7.5.


Hardness


2-10°H


Remark


Hyphessobrycon griemi is similar, but lacks the red coloration, and has more white in its fin.