Serpae tetra
Hyphessobrycon eques · Characidae
Also known as Red minor tetra, Jewel tetra
Beginner
Blood-red and pretty, but a committed fin nipper unless kept in a big group.
In short: A serpae tetra needs at least 75 L (20 US gal), water at 22–28 °C (72–82 °F) and pH 5.5–7.5. It is semi-aggressive, best kept in groups of 10 or more, and rated beginner to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 75 L (20 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)
- pH
- 5.5–7.5
- Adult size
- 4 cm (1.6 in)
- Group size
- 10+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 75 L (20 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)
- pH
- 5.5–7.5
- Hardness
- 3–18 dGH
- Lifespan
- 3–6 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — flake, pellets, frozen foods.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Paraguay and Guapore basins
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Slow, plant-filled creeks
- Natural conditions
- Soft to medium water with cover.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Minimum group
- 10 fish
- Swims
- Mid-water
- Good tank mates
- BarbsDaniosCorydoras
- Avoid
- AngelfishBettaGuppiesPearl gourami
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Males are slimmer and redder.
- Notes
- Egg scatterer; easy in soft water.
- Common ailments
- IchFin damage from squabbles
Will it fit your tank?
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