Silver Tip Tetra | 2-2.5cms | Single

The Silver Tip Tetra (Hasemania nana) is a small and vibrant freshwater fish native to South America, primarily found in the Amazon and Orinoco River basins in Brazil and Venezuela. Known for its silver body with distinctive yellow or orange tips on its fins, the Silver Tip Tetra is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts for its active schooling behavior and striking appearance. It is an ideal species for peaceful community tanks due to its calm nature and compatibility with other species.
Key Characteristics
Scientific Name: Hasemania nana
Size: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm)
Lifespan: 3–5 years
Coloration:
A shiny silver body with yellow or orange tips on the dorsal, tail, and pelvic fins.
The body also has a translucent, slightly iridescent sheen, which adds to its visual appeal.
Shape:
Small, elongated body with a slightly rounded profile.
Long, slender fins, with the most prominent feature being the yellow-orange tips.
Temperament:
Peaceful and social.
Prefers to be in groups and is active, often swimming in the middle to upper levels of the tank.
Tank Level:
Prefers the middle to upper layers of the aquarium.
Water Parameters
Temperature: 72–80°F (22–27°C)
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardness: 2–15 dGH
Water Quality:
Prefers soft to moderately hard water.
Clean, well-oxygenated water with moderate filtration is important to maintain their health.
Tank Setup
Tank Size:
A minimum of 10–15 gallons for a small school of Silver Tip Tetras. Larger schools will require a larger tank of 20 gallons or more.
Substrate:
Fine gravel or sand works well, as these are soft on the fish's delicate fins.
Decor and Plants:
Live plants such as Java Fern, Anubias, and Moss are ideal.
Providing plenty of hiding spaces with driftwood or smooth rocks will help mimic their natural environment.
Silver Tip Tetras are active swimmers, so leave plenty of open swimming space in the tank.
Filtration:
A moderate filter is sufficient, but it should not create a strong current, as Silver Tip Tetras prefer calmer waters.
Lighting:
Moderate lighting, with some shaded areas provided by plants, mimics their natural habitat.
Diet
Type: Omnivorous
Preferred Foods:
High-quality flake foods, small pellets, or granules designed for tetras.
Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms.
Occasional plant matter such as spirulina or blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
Feeding Tips:
Feed 2–3 times a day in small portions.
A varied diet is important for their health and vibrant coloration.
Behavior and Tank Mates
Behavior:
Silver Tip Tetras are peaceful, schooling fish. They should be kept in groups of at least 6–8 individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviors.
They are active swimmers and enjoy interacting with each other in the middle and upper parts of the tank.
Suitable Tank Mates:
Peaceful community fish such as other small tetras, rasboras, guppies, Corydoras catfish, and small peaceful livebearers.
Shrimp species like Amano shrimp and small snails are also good tankmates.
Avoid:
Larger or more aggressive species like cichlids or barbs, which may stress or harm the Silver Tip Tetra.
Breeding
Difficulty: Moderate
Process:
Silver Tip Tetras are egg-scatterers. To breed them, a separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water should be set up.
After spawning, remove the parents as they may eat the eggs.
The eggs hatch in 24–48 hours, and the fry become free-swimming after 4–5 days.
Fry Care:
Feed the fry with infusoria or finely crushed flakes until they grow large enough for baby brine shrimp.
Care Tips
Regular water changes (25% weekly) are essential to maintain water quality and prevent the buildup of toxins.
Keep the tank clean and avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to water quality issues.
Monitor water parameters, especially pH and temperature, as fluctuations can stress the fish.
Provide plenty of plants and hiding spaces to make the fish feel secure and reduce stress.
Why Choose a Silver Tip Tetra?
Striking Appearance: The silver body with vibrant yellow or orange fins makes this species an attractive addition to any aquarium.
Peaceful and Active: Its calm nature and schooling behavior make it an ideal choice for community tanks.
Easy to Care For: Silver Tip Tetras are relatively hardy and easy to maintain, making them a good option for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
Schooling Behavior: Their natural schooling behavior adds dynamic movement and beauty to the tank.
Conclusion
The Silver Tip Tetra is an elegant, peaceful, and vibrant fish that makes a great addition to a community tank. With its striking coloration and active schooling behavior, it adds beauty and movement to the aquarium. As long as you provide the right water conditions, diet, and tank mates, the Silver Tip Tetra will thrive and bring lasting enjoyment to your aquarium.