Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) – A Glowing Jewel of Your Aquarium

The Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) is a small yet strikingly beautiful freshwater fish that will brighten up any aquarium with its fiery orange-red coloration. Despite its size, this tetra makes a big visual impact, especially when swimming in schools. Its vibrant hues, combined with its peaceful nature, make the Ember Tetra a popular choice for aquarists looking to add both color and movement to their tanks.

Native to the slow-moving streams and rivers of Brazil, the Ember Tetra thrives in well-planted aquariums, where its radiant color stands out against a backdrop of lush greenery. A perfect species for nano tanks or larger community setups, it adds a lively, glowing presence wherever it’s kept. This hardy and active little fish is especially stunning when kept in groups, where the school’s synchronized movements create a dazzling display of color.

Key Features & Care Guidelines:

• Vibrant Coloration: The Ember Tetra is known for its bright orange to red body, which gives it a "glowing" effect, especially under aquarium lighting. Its radiant color is one of its most captivating features.

• Behavior: Peaceful and social; best kept in schools of 6 or more to promote natural schooling behavior and reduce stress. These active fish are constantly in motion, exploring their environment or schooling together.

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons recommended for a small school, though larger tanks provide more space and a better visual display. The Ember Tetra thrives in densely planted aquariums.

• Water Parameters: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and temperatures ranging from 74°F to 82°F (23°C to 28°C). A gentle water flow and good filtration are key to maintaining a healthy environment for these small tetras.

• Diet: Omnivorous; accepts a wide variety of foods, including high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen offerings such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. A varied diet helps enhance their health and vibrant coloration.

• Tank Setup: Ideal for well-planted aquariums with moderate lighting. Dense plant coverage, along with some open swimming spaces, is essential for their comfort and natural behavior. The presence of soft, gentle water flow will mimic their native habitat.

• Experience Level: Hardy and adaptable, making the Ember Tetra a great choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists. It is a peaceful species that does well in community tanks with other non-aggressive fish.

The Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) is an outstanding addition to any aquarium, offering an intense burst of color and a gentle, active nature. Whether swimming in schools or gliding through plants, this beautiful tetra will quickly become the focal point of your aquarium.