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Here is a complete care guide and detailed profile of the Serpae Tetra – a lively, colorful freshwater fish popular in community aquariums.


🐟 Serpae Tetra – Full Details & Care Guide


Common Names:

  • Serpae Tetra

  • Red Minor Tetra

  • Blood Tetra

  • Jewel Tetra


🔬 Scientific Classification:

Category Information
Scientific Name Hyphessobrycon eques or Hyphessobrycon callistus
Family Characidae
Origin South America – especially Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina (Amazon Basin)

🎨 Appearance:

Feature Description
Color Deep red or reddish-brown body with a dark black spot near the gills
Fins Black-edged dorsal fin; other fins often have a reddish hue
Size 1.5 to 2 inches (4–5 cm)
Lifespan 5 – 7 years in good conditions
Sexual Dimorphism Females are rounder and slightly paler; males are slimmer and brighter red

🌡️ Water Parameters:

Parameter Ideal Range
Temperature 22°C – 27°C (72°F – 81°F)
pH Level 5.0 – 7.5 (slightly acidic preferred)
Hardness 5 – 20 dGH
Water Type Freshwater

🏡 Tank Setup:

Feature Recommendations
Tank Size Minimum 20 gallons
School Size At least 6–8 (larger groups reduce aggression)
Substrate Dark gravel or sand (enhances colors)
Plants Live or artificial – like Java Fern, Amazon Sword, floating plants
Decorations Driftwood, caves, rocks for hiding
Filtration Moderate – good quality filter without strong flow
Lighting Moderate; subdued light preferred

🧠 Temperament & Behavior:

Trait Description
Temperament Semi-aggressive (especially if kept alone or in small numbers)
Schooling Yes – calmer in schools of 6+
Activity Level Very active
Swimming Level Mid-level in the tank
Fin-nipping Can nip slow or long-finned tank mates if not in large group

🤝 Ideal Tank Mates:

✅ Compatible With ❌ Avoid With
Corydoras catfish Bettas
Mollies, Swordtails Guppies
Barbs (non-aggressive types) Angelfish (fins may get nipped)
Tetras (like Glowlight, Black Skirt) Slow-moving or fancy-finned fish
Dwarf Gouramis Shrimp (may nip at them)

🍽️ Feeding:

Type Examples
Flake Food High-quality tropical flakes
Pellets Micro or mini pellets
Frozen/Live Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
Vegetables Spirulina, blanched spinach, zucchini (occasionally)
  • Feed small portions 1–2 times daily.

  • Avoid overfeeding – can pollute the water.


🐣 Breeding Serpae Tetras:

Aspect Details
Spawning Type Egg scatterers
Breeding Tank Separate tank with fine-leaved plants or mesh bottom
Conditions Soft, acidic water (pH 5.5–6.5), low lighting
Egg Count 100–200 eggs
Parental Care None – remove adults after spawning
Hatching Time 24–36 hours
Fry Food Infusoria, then baby brine shrimp

🧼 Care Tips:

  • ✔️ Always keep Serpae Tetras in groups (6 or more) to minimize aggression

  • ✔️ Provide ample swimming space and plants for hiding

  • ✔️ Perform 25–30% weekly water changes

  • ✔️ Use a lid, as they can jump

  • 🛑 Avoid keeping with fish with long, flowing fins


📋 Summary Profile:

Feature Info
Scientific Name Hyphessobrycon eques
Common Names Serpae Tetra, Blood Tetra
Size Up to 2 inches
Temperament Semi-aggressive
Care Level Easy to moderate
Lifespan 5–7 years
Diet Omnivorous
Tank Level Mid-dweller
Best for Community tanks (with caution)

🌟 Highlights:

  • 🔴 Bright red coloration with bold black markings

  • 🐟 Best kept in schools for a peaceful display

  • 🧼 Easy to care for and feed

  • 🎨 Adds vivid contrast to planted or dark-substrate tanks


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