Serpae Tetra

Serpae Tetra     (Hyphessobrycon eques)    Grows to:  2"

Beginners? :  A hardy fish suitable for beginners.  These fish are very colorful and one of our most popular fish.

How Many?  They are a schooling fish that should be be purchased in groups of 4 or more.  Six or more is best.

Housing:  Provide plenty of swimming room as well as some bushy plants for hiding.  They look good with a dark substrate.  They swim in the mid to bottom region of the tank.  Because they are found in calm black-water environments, they enjoy a slower water current.  Minimum tank size is about 10 gallons. (Temperature- 72-80),  (pH 6.0-7.5)

Tank mates:  They are lively and active fish that should be kept with other active fish of similar size. They may nip fins of small slow moving fish (such as neons)  if kept singly, schools of at least 6 fish will help deter fin nipping behavior.

Feeding:  They will accept a variety of foods.  Feed flakes, along with brine shrimp and frozen foods.  Tetras will show their best color after you have owned it for a few months and have given them a good diet.  They are an omnivore.
Natural Habitat:  Paraguay & Brazil.   Fish sold at Elmer's are domestically raised.

Males and Females:  Males may appear brighter in color.  Females will appear more round bodied when plump with eggs.

Varieties:  The Longfin variety is often available.