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Serpae tetra (Hyphessobrycon eques)
Photo: Dubrovsky Alexander ( Aledubr ) · Public domain via Wikimedia Commons

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.

Minimum tank
75 L
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
5.5–7.5
Adult size
4 cm
Group size
10+
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Care requirements
Minimum tank volume
75 L
Temperature
22–28 °C
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
Barbs
Danios
Corydoras
Avoid
Angelfish
Betta
Guppies
Pearl gourami
Breeding & difficulty
Breeding difficulty
Intermediate
Sexing
Males are slimmer and redder.
Notes
Egg scatterer; easy in soft water.
Common ailments
Ich
Fin damage from squabbles

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