Description
Ember Tetra – Hyphessobrycon amandae
Introduction:
The Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) is a small, colorful species of freshwater fish that is known for its bright orange-red coloration. These tetras are a popular choice for nano tanks due to their size and peaceful nature. They typically grow to a maximum size of 1 to 1.5 inches, making them perfect for small community aquariums. Their vibrant appearance and easy care requirements make them a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
- Natural Habitat: Native to the Rio Xingu in Brazil, Ember Tetras inhabit slow-moving streams and rivers with clear, slightly acidic waters. The environment is often dense with plants and submerged wood.
- Behavior: Ember Tetras are peaceful, schooling fish that do best in groups of 6 or more. They are active swimmers but tend to stay towards the middle and upper sections of the tank. These tetras are social creatures that enjoy the company of others of their kind and are non-aggressive towards other fish.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended for a small school of Ember Tetras. They are ideal for nano tanks, but larger groups will require a bigger tank.
- Substrate: Fine gravel or sand works well for these small fish. A darker substrate can help bring out their vibrant orange coloration.
- Decor: Plants, driftwood, and rocks are essential to mimic their natural habitat. Dense planting with floating plants will also provide shade and make them feel secure.
- Water Conditions: Ember Tetras prefer slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0 to 7.5), with a temperature range of 75°F to 82°F. Water hardness should be kept low to medium, and stable water quality is crucial for their health.
- Lighting: They thrive under soft, moderate lighting. Use floating plants or slightly dimmer lighting to recreate their natural environment.
3. Diet and Feeding
- Diet: Ember Tetras are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. They do well on high-quality flake food, small pellets, live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms, as well as finely chopped vegetables.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed them 2 to 3 times a day, offering small amounts of food they can consume in a few minutes. This helps prevent overfeeding and maintains good water quality.
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
- Compatible Species: Ember Tetras are peaceful and thrive in community tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish such as rasboras, guppies, and other small tetras.
- Incompatible Species: Avoid housing them with large, aggressive fish or species that might view them as food. They are not suitable for tanks with fin-nippers or overly territorial fish.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Schooling Behavior: Like many tetras, Ember Tetras feel most secure when kept in schools. A group of 6 or more will prevent them from becoming stressed or skittish.
- Water Quality: These tetras are sensitive to poor water quality. Regular water changes and proper filtration are essential to keep them healthy.
- Tankmates: They do well in peaceful community tanks but should be housed with other peaceful species to avoid stress and aggression.
Conclusion:
The Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) is an excellent choice for aquarists looking for a small, colorful addition to a peaceful community tank. With their vibrant coloration, active swimming patterns, and social nature, they bring beauty and tranquility to any aquarium. By providing stable water conditions, a balanced diet, and a school of their own kind, they will thrive in your aquarium for years to come.