Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae), also known as the Fire Tetra, is a small and popular freshwater fish species that is appreciated for its vibrant coloration, peaceful temperament, and ease of care. Here's some information about the Ember Tetra:
1. **Origin**: Ember Tetras are native to South America, specifically the Araguaia River basin in Brazil. They inhabit slow-moving or stagnant waters in their natural habitat.
2. **Size**: These fish are quite small, typically reaching a maximum size of about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length, making them a great choice for small to medium-sized aquariums.
3. **Coloration**: Ember Tetras are known for their striking red and orange coloration, which gives them their common name "Ember." Their bodies are predominantly translucent with bright red or orange markings on their fins and around the base of their tails. This coloration intensifies when they are in good health and kept in a well-maintained aquarium.
4. **Temperament**: Ember Tetras are peaceful and social fish. They do well in community aquariums and are generally compatible with other non-aggressive fish of similar size. They tend to school or shoal together, so it's recommended to keep them in groups of at least six to help them feel secure and display their natural behaviors.
5. **Aquarium Setup**: Setting up a suitable environment for Ember Tetras is relatively straightforward. A well-planted aquarium with soft, acidic to neutral water conditions is ideal. They appreciate hiding places among plants and decorations, as well as some open swimming space. Adequate filtration and regular water changes are necessary to maintain good water quality.
6. **Water Parameters**: Ember Tetras prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 and a temperature range of 72-80°F (22-27°C). Soft water with a low hardness level is preferable.
7. **Diet**: These fish are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods. Their diet should include high-quality flake or pellet foods, as well as occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. Offering a varied diet will help keep them healthy and vibrant.
8. **Breeding**: Ember Tetras are relatively easy to breed in captivity. Provide them with a well-planted aquarium and slightly warmer water (around 82-84°F or 28-29°C) to trigger breeding behavior. They are egg-scattering fish, and the eggs will attach to plants or other surfaces. Remove the adults from the breeding tank to prevent them from consuming the eggs, and raise the fry on a diet of small, live foods.
Ember Tetras are a beautiful and peaceful addition to a community aquarium, especially for aquarists looking to add a burst of color to their setup. Their small size and manageable care requirements make them suitable for both beginners and experienced hobbyists alike.
