Sarpae tetra |1-2cms | Single

The Serpae Tetra (Hyphessobrycon eques), also known as the Red Minor Tetra, is a strikingly colorful freshwater fish known for its deep red body and contrasting black spot behind the gills. These active and lively fish are native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of South America. While relatively hardy and beginner-friendly, they are best suited for community tanks with compatible tankmates due to their semi-aggressive behavior.

Key Characteristics of Serpae Tetra:

• Size: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm).
• Color: Vibrant red body with a black spot near the gills and slightly translucent fins, often tipped with white.
• Lifespan: 5–7 years with proper care.
• Behavior: Active and semi-aggressive; known to nip fins, especially in smaller groups.
• Activity Level: Energetic swimmers that occupy the middle levels of the tank.

Water Parameters for Serpae Tetra:

• Temperature: 22–27°C (72–80°F).
• pH: 5.0–7.5, with slightly acidic water being ideal.
• Hardness: 5–15 dGH.
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a small school of 6–8, with larger tanks recommended for more fish or community setups.

Tank Setup:

• Substrate: Dark substrates enhance their vibrant red coloration.
• Plants: Include dense live plants such as Java fern, Amazon swords, and Anubias to provide hiding spots and break up sightlines.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting; subdued light helps replicate their natural habitat.
• Water Flow: Gentle to moderate water movement; they prefer calm waters but adapt to moderate flow.
• Decor: Incorporate driftwood, rocks, and caves for shelter and territory establishment.

Diet:

Serpae Tetras are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet:

• Staple Foods: High-quality flakes or micro-pellets.
• Protein Sources: Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
• Vegetable Matter: Spirulina-based flakes or finely chopped blanched spinach.
• Feeding Tip: Feed small amounts twice daily and remove uneaten food promptly to maintain water quality.

Behavior and Tankmates:

• Behavior: Serpae Tetras are active, shoaling fish that display their best behavior and coloration in groups of 6 or more. In smaller groups, they may become aggressive or nippy toward tankmates.
• Tankmates:
  • Compatible Species: Other fast-moving fish such as zebra danios, larger tetras (e.g., black skirts, diamond tetras), and bottom-dwellers like Corydoras or loaches.
  • Avoid: Slow-moving or long-finned fish like angelfish, bettas, or guppies, which may become targets for fin-nipping.

Breeding Serpae Tetra:

Breeding Serpae Tetras in captivity is possible with the right conditions:

• Breeding Tank: Set up a separate tank with soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5.5–6.5) and fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop.
• Conditioning: Feed the breeding pair live or frozen protein-rich foods to encourage spawning.
• Spawning Behavior: Males display vibrant colors and court females. Females scatter eggs among plants or substrate.
• Egg Care: Remove adults post-spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs. Eggs hatch in 24–36 hours.
• Fry Care: Feed fry infusoria or liquid fry food initially, transitioning to finely crushed flakes or micro-pellets as they grow.

Care Tips:

• Group Size: Always keep them in groups of 6 or more to reduce fin-nipping and promote natural shoaling behavior.
• Tankmates: Select tankmates carefully, avoiding slow or long-finned species that might provoke nipping.
• Water Quality: Regular water changes are essential to keep ammonia and nitrate levels low, as Serpae Tetras are sensitive to poor water conditions.
• Environmental Enrichment: Provide a well-decorated tank with plants and hiding spots to reduce stress and aggression.

Why Choose Serpae Tetras?

• Vibrant Coloration: Their striking red bodies and dynamic behavior add a lively touch to any aquarium.
• Hardy and Adaptable: Easy to care for and adaptable to a range of water conditions, they are suitable for beginners.
• Energetic Behavior: Their active swimming and shoaling patterns bring life to the mid-levels of a tank.

Conclusion:

Serpae Tetras are an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a colorful, active species for a semi-aggressive community tank. With proper care, tank setup, and careful selection of tankmates, they can thrive and add vibrancy to your aquarium. Their lively nature and bold appearance make them a favorite among hobbyists.