Ember Tetra

The Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae), also known as the Fire, Dwarf Red, or Amanda’s Tetra is a strikingly beautiful tetra that is becoming increasingly popular among aquarists due to its elegant appearance, peaceful disposition, and very small size.  This schooling fish can be the highlight in any peaceful community aquarium and it is a particular standout in the planted aquarium.

The Ember Tetra typically occupies the top and middle level of the water column, although it can often be seen swimming and feeding in the middle and bottom levels as well.   It is safe with other peaceful, small fish.  Due to its extra small size, it can be viewed as similar to microrasboras as far as its compatibility with dwarf shrimp.  Larger, peaceful invertebrates can also make good tankmates.  The Ember Tetra must be kept in schools of 6 or more. Since it is tank-raised, this fish is somewhat adaptable, but its natural habitat contains slightly acidic water rich in tannins and leaf litter.  It requires very clean water to thrive and it will display optimal coloration and health in a planted aquarium with dark substrate, especially where floating plants are present.  It should not be kept with overly boisterous tankmates that will outcompete it during feeding.

• Diet: Micropredator. Will easily accept high quality dry and frozen foods of appropriate size.
• Social behavior: Peaceful, schooling/shoaling.
• Origin:  Tank-bred, but indigenous to South American Araguaia system
• Average adult size: 1.5-2 cm
• Average purchase size: 0.6-1.3 cm