Ember Tetra

 

 

Ember Tetra Care Guide (Hyphessobrycon amandae)

 

 

Appearance and Behavior

 

The Ember Tetra lives up to its name, glowing with a deep, uniform red-orange to coppery color across its entire body, especially when happy and healthy.

• Shoaling: They are social fish that form loose, active shoals. They should be kept in groups of at least 8–10 individuals, though large schools of 15-30 look spectacular and make them feel very secure.
• Activity: They are mid-water swimmers and, unlike some nano fish, are relatively outgoing and not easily spooked when kept in a large group and a planted tank.

 

Tank Requirements and Water Parameters

 

Ember Tetras thrive in conditions that resemble their warm, acidic, blackwater streams.

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons is a common minimum, suitable for a small group. A 15-20 gallon tank is excellent for a larger, more active school.
• Temperature: Tropical range: 73°–82° F (23°–28° C).
• pH Level: Prefers soft, slightly acidic water: 5.5 to 7.0. Their color is often deepest when kept with botanicals (like Indian almond leaves) that release tannins.
• Aquascape: A densely planted tank with a dark substrate is ideal. Use driftwood, roots, and fine-leaved plants (like Java Moss) for cover. Floating plants are excellent for diffusing the light, which they appreciate.
• Water Flow: Should be gentle, as they are small and prefer calmer water.

 

Diet and Feeding

 

The Ember Tetra is an omnivorous micro-predator with a tiny mouth.

• Staple Diet: High-quality micro-pellets or finely crushed flakes.
• Supplementation: A diet rich in carotenoids and protein enhances their vibrant color. They readily accept small, meaty foods:
  • Baby Brine Shrimp (newly hatched)
  • Daphnia
  • Microworms
  • Frozen Cyclops
• Feeding Tip: Feed small amounts 2-3 times per day. Ensure the food is small enough for their mouths.

 

Compatibility

 

The Ember Tetra is one of the most reliable and peaceful fish for a community tank.

• Good Tank Mates: Other peaceful nano fish like Least Rasboras, Pygmy Corydoras, Otocinclus catfish, Dwarf Pencilfish, and Dwarf Shrimp (they rarely bother adult shrimp, but may eat shrimplets).
• Avoid: Any fish larger than 1.5 inches, or species known to be aggressive or boisterous.