Flame Tetra: Fish Species Profile

The Flame Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) is a stunning species of freshwater fish known for its vibrant red-orange coloration, which resembles the warm glow of flames. A popular choice for aquarists, this small yet colorful species adds a splash of color to community tanks and is ideal for smaller aquarium setups. The Flame Tetra’s peaceful nature, small size, and striking appearance make it a favorite among beginner and experienced aquarists alike.

• Common Names: Flame Tetra, Ember Tetra
• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon amandae
• Adult Size: Typically 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length
• Life Expectancy: 3 to 5 years in a well-maintained tank

Characteristics

The Flame Tetra is known for its brilliant red or orange body that fades into a light yellowish or transparent tail. The fish’s small size and vibrant colors make it a visually striking addition to any aquarium. Males generally display brighter and more intense colors, particularly during the breeding season. These peaceful, social fish are often seen swimming in small schools, which helps reduce stress and brings out their natural schooling behavior. Flame Tetras are active swimmers and thrive in groups, making them an ideal choice for community tanks with other small, peaceful species.

• Family: Characidae
• Origin: Native to South America, specifically in the tributaries of the Rio São Francisco in Brazil
• Social Behavior: Peaceful and social; thrives in schools
• Tank Level: Mid to upper-level swimmers
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) for a small group
• Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on a mix of plant material and small invertebrates
• Breeding: Egg layers; often lay eggs on plants or fine surfaces
• Care Level: Easy; suitable for beginner aquarists
• Water Conditions:
  • pH: 6.0 to 7.5
  • Temperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)
  • Hardness: 2 to 15 dGH

Origin and Distribution

Flame Tetras are native to the small, slow-moving streams and rivers of Brazil, specifically in the Rio São Francisco basin. These fish prefer warm, slightly acidic to neutral water with dense vegetation, which provides cover and helps them feel secure. In the wild, they feed on small invertebrates, plant matter, and detritus. Flame Tetras are widely available in the aquarium trade and are often bred in captivity for their vibrant colors and peaceful nature.

Colors and Markings

The most notable feature of the Flame Tetra is its bright red to orange body coloration, which resembles the warmth and brightness of flames. The color intensity can vary depending on the water conditions, diet, and stress levels, but when healthy and in the right environment, these fish display a radiant hue. The body is slender, and the fins are transparent with a light yellowish tint, further enhancing the overall appearance. The Flame Tetra’s small size and bright colors make it a captivating sight in any tank.

Tankmates

Flame Tetras are peaceful, social fish that do well in community aquariums with other small, non-aggressive species. They are best kept in schools of at least 6-8 individuals, as they feel more secure and exhibit more natural behaviors in groups. Flame Tetras generally do not show aggression and make excellent companions for other peaceful fish, including other small tetras, rasboras, and livebearers.

• Recommended Tankmates:
  • Small, peaceful fish like neon tetras, ember tetras, or micro rasboras
  • Peaceful livebearers such as guppies, mollies, and platies
  • Bottom-dwelling species like Corydoras catfish or peaceful snails
  • Shrimp species such as Cherry Shrimp or Amano Shrimp
• Fish to Avoid:
  • Larger or more aggressive species like cichlids, barbs, or large predatory fish
  • Fast-moving species that may outcompete Flame Tetras for food

Habitat and Care

Flame Tetras are easy to care for and adapt well to a variety of tank setups. They thrive in well-planted aquariums with moderate filtration and gentle water movement. A soft, sandy substrate is ideal for these small fish, as they spend a lot of time near the substrate. Providing plenty of plants, driftwood, and hiding spots will help mimic their natural environment and reduce stress. Regular water changes and stable water conditions are important to maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

• Ideal Aquarium Conditions:
  • A well-planted tank with live plants, rocks, or driftwood for hiding
  • A soft, sandy or fine gravel substrate
  • Moderate filtration with gentle water flow
  • Regular water changes (at least 25% per week) to maintain water quality
  • Stable temperature and pH levels within the recommended range

Diet and Feeding

Flame Tetras are omnivorous and will readily accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flake food, micro pellets, live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms, and plant matter like algae wafers or blanched vegetables. A varied diet helps maintain their vibrant colors and overall health.

• Feeding Tips:
  • Feed small amounts 2-3 times a day
  • Offer a mix of plant-based foods and protein-rich foods
  • Remove any uneaten food after 5-10 minutes to avoid water quality issues
  • Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods occasionally for added nutrition

Gender Differences

Male and female Flame Tetras are similar in appearance, but males are generally more colorful, especially during the breeding season. Females tend to be slightly larger and rounder, particularly when gravid (carrying eggs), but they lack the intensity of color that males display. Males often show more vivid reds or oranges during courtship.

• Male: Smaller, more colorful with intense red or orange markings during breeding
• Female: Larger, rounder, less colorful, especially when gravid

Breeding

Breeding Flame Tetras in captivity can be challenging but is possible with the right conditions. These fish are egg layers, and the female typically lays her eggs on fine-leaved plants or tank surfaces. After fertilization, the eggs will hatch in 2-3 days, and the fry will swim freely after about a week. The parents may eat the eggs or fry, so it’s best to remove them to a separate breeding tank to ensure their survival.

• Breeding Tips:
  • Maintain a ratio of 1 male to 2-3 females to reduce stress on the females
  • Provide a breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or breeding mats for egg laying
  • After the fry hatch, move them to a separate tank or use a breeding net to protect them from adult fish

More Pet Fish Species and Further Research

If you enjoy keeping Flame Tetras, you may also want to explore other small, peaceful tetra species, such as Neon Tetras, Ember Tetras, or the Dwarf Rasbora. Other peaceful species like micro rasboras, guppies, and Corydoras catfish also make great tankmates for these delicate and colorful fish.

FAQ

Q: How many Flame Tetras should I keep together?
A: Flame Tetras should be kept in schools of at least 6-8 individuals. This helps them feel secure and allows you to observe their natural schooling behavior.

Q: Are Flame Tetras hard to care for?
A: No, they are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner aquarists. They require stable water conditions, a varied diet, and a peaceful tank environment to thrive.

Q: How can I tell if my Flame Tetra is male or female?
A: Males are typically more colorful, especially during breeding, while females are larger, rounder, and less vividly colored.