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...
Here is a complete care guide and detailed profile of the Serpae Tetra – a lively, colorful freshwater fish popular in community aquariums.
Serpae Tetra
Red Minor Tetra
Blood Tetra
Jewel Tetra
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon eques or Hyphessobrycon callistus |
| Family | Characidae |
| Origin | South America – especially Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina (Amazon Basin) |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| ✅ 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) |
| 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.
| 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 |
✔️ 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
| 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) |
🔴 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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