Add a glowing spark to your aquascape with the Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae). Known for their fiery orange-red coloration and peaceful temperament, these tiny gems are a favorite among nano-tank enthusiasts and high-end aquascapers. Their small size and schooling nature make them the perfect choice for creating a sense of scale and movement in any freshwater planted aquarium.

Place of Origin

Ember Tetras are native to the Araguaia River basin in Central Brazil. In their natural habitat, they are typically found in slow-moving "blackwater" tributaries and minor streams characterized by soft, acidic water and plenty of leaf litter and submerged vegetation.

Care Level & Environment

• Care Level: Easy. They are hardy and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced hobbyists.

• Water Conditions: To see their most intense "ember" glow, keep them in stable water conditions that mimic their native environment.

  • Temperature: 73°F - 82°F (23°C - 28°C)

  • pH: 5.0 - 7.0

  • Hardness: 5 - 12 dGH

• Aquarium Setup: The Ember Tetra looks most stunning in a heavily planted tank. Use a dark substrate and floating plants to create shaded areas, which helps the fish feel secure and encourages bolder coloration. They appreciate a gentle water flow and benefit from the addition of Indian Almond leaves or driftwood to release natural tannins.

Tank Size

Due to their diminutive size—reaching a maximum of about 0.8 inches (2 cm)—Ember Tetras are one of the best species for nano aquariums.

• Minimum Tank Size: 5 to 10 gallons.

• Schooling Requirements: They are highly social and must be kept in groups of at least 8 to 10. Larger schools (15+) create a spectacular visual impact and reduce stress for the fish.

Diet & Feeding

Hyphessobrycon amandae is an omnivore. Because they have very small mouths, it is important to provide appropriately sized food.

• Staple Diet: High-quality crushed flakes or micro-granules.

• Live/Frozen Foods: They thrive when offered baby brine shrimp, daphnia, or finely chopped bloodworms.

• Color Enhancement: A diet rich in carotenoids will help maintain their brilliant orange-red hue.

Tank Mates

Ember Tetras are exceptionally peaceful and make ideal candidates for community tanks with other small species.

• Ideal Tank Mates: Other nano fish like Chili Rasboras, Celestial Pearl Danios, Neon Tetras, and Corydoras.

• Shrimp & Snail Safe: They are one of the most shrimp-safe fish available, making them perfect for Cherry Shrimp or Crystal Red Shrimp colonies.

• Avoid: Large or aggressive fish (like Angelfish or large Barbs) that may see these tiny tetras as food.

Breeding Ember Tetras

Breeding is possible for the dedicated hobbyist. Like most tetras, they are egg-scatterers.

1. Conditioning: Feed the parents plenty of live foods and maintain slightly acidic, soft water.

2. Spawning Tank: Use a small, separate tank with a mesh bottom or plenty of fine-leaved plants like Java Moss to catch the eggs.

3. Egg Care: Remove the adults immediately after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs. The fry are extremely small and will require infusoria or paramecium as their first food before graduating to vinegar eels or baby brine shrimp.

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• The photos shown on fish product pages are representations of adult fish and are NOT the actual fish that you will be receiving. 
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