Ember tetra |1-2cms | Single

The Ember Tetra is a small, brightly colored freshwater fish loved by aquarium enthusiasts for its striking orange-red hue and peaceful nature. Native to slow-moving rivers and streams in Brazil, Ember Tetras are perfect for community tanks and provide a captivating contrast to green plants in aquascapes.
Key Characteristics:
Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon amandae
Size: 0.8 to 1 inch (2 to 2.5 cm)
Lifespan: 2–4 years
Coloration: Vibrant orange to red shades, with semi-transparent fins.
Temperament: Peaceful and shoaling; thrives in groups of 8 or more.
Tank Level: Mid-level swimmer.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
pH: 5.5–7.0
Hardness: 5–17 dGH
Water Flow: Low to moderate, mimicking their natural habitat.
Tank Setup:
Tank Size:
Minimum 10 gallons for a small school.
Larger tanks allow for more shoaling behavior and other tank mates.
Substrate:
Dark substrate enhances their bright coloration.
Decor:
Plenty of live plants (e.g., Java Moss, Anubias, and Amazon Swords) for hiding spots and to mimic their natural environment.
Driftwood and leaf litter can help replicate the tannin-rich waters of their habitat.
Lighting:
Moderate to low lighting enhances their coloration and creates a more natural environment.
Filtration:
Gentle filtration to maintain clean water without creating strong currents.
Diet:
Type: Omnivorous.
Preferred Foods:
High-quality micro-pellets or flakes.
Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
Occasional vegetable-based food for variety.
Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily in small amounts they can consume within 2 minutes.
Behavior and Tank Mates:
Behavior:
Peaceful and sociable, best kept in schools of at least 8–10.
Shoaling enhances their natural behavior and reduces stress.
Suitable Tank Mates:
Other small, peaceful species like Neon Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, and Corydoras.
Shrimp and snails for added diversity.
Avoid:
Large or aggressive fish that might prey on or outcompete them.
Breeding:
Difficulty: Moderate.
Setup:
Use a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water.
Add fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop for egg-laying.
Process:
Females scatter eggs, which are fertilized by males.
Remove adults post-spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.
Fry Care:
Feed infusoria or powdered fry food until they grow large enough for brine shrimp or micro-worms.
Care Tips:
Regular water changes (25–30% weekly) to maintain pristine water conditions.
Avoid sudden changes in water parameters to prevent stress.
Observe their behavior to ensure they are active and shoaling, as inactivity may indicate illness or stress.
Why Choose Ember Tetras?:
Their bright coloration adds vibrancy to any aquarium.
Ideal for nano tanks or aquascaped setups.
Peaceful nature makes them excellent for community tanks.
Conclusion:
The Ember Tetra is a stunning, low-maintenance fish that thrives in a well-planted aquarium with stable water conditions. Its peaceful temperament and vibrant colors make it a popular choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. By providing proper care and a suitable environment, you can enjoy the beauty and activity of these tiny gems in your aquarium.