Ember Tetra

The ember tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) is a micro-sized characin native to the Araguaia and Tocantins River basins of Mato Grosso state, central-western Brazil. At just 1.5–2 cm, it is one of the smallest aquarium fish available, yet its whole-body coloration — a vivid, fiery orange-red reminiscent of glowing embers — creates a striking visual impact, especially in schools of ten or more against a green planted backdrop. Even the eyes carry a reddish hue, adding to its gem-like quality. Blackwater aquascape setups with driftwood, leaf litter, and dark substrate intensify the orange coloration dramatically. It thrives in soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5.5–7.0) at 22–28°C. Extremely peaceful, ember tetras coexist harmoniously with other micro fish and dwarf shrimp. Their tiny mouths require appropriately small foods: fine powder foods, crushed flake, micro pellets, and baby brine shrimp or frozen daphnia. Breeding on fine-leaved plants in acidic water is achievable with minimal intervention in a mature, stable aquarium.

Small pellets, frozen food