Ember Tetra (.75-1”)

Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon amandae

Maximum Size and Lifespan:
Ember tetras are small schooling fish that reach about 1" in length. With proper care, they live 2–4 years in captivity, sometimes longer in well-maintained aquariums.

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes, and Care:
A minimum 5-gallon (40 L) tank is suitable for a small school of ember tetras, but larger tanks allow for a more natural-looking group. 10 gallons+ is preferred as they thrive best in groups of at least 8–10 individuals, which helps reduce stress and encourages natural schooling behavior.

• Water parameters: Soft, slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 5.5–7.0), temperature between 73–82°F (23–28°C).

• Water changes: Regular partial changes of 25–30% weekly help maintain stability, as these fish are sensitive to poor water quality.

• Care: Provide fine-leaved plants, driftwood, and subdued lighting to mimic their natural habitat. They appreciate a dark substrate that enhances their orange coloration.

Tankmates:
Ember tetras are peaceful and well-suited for community tanks. Good companions include:

• Other small, peaceful tetras (neons, cardinals, rummy-nose)

• Rasboras, dwarf corydoras, small loaches

• Peaceful dwarf cichlids (such as Apistogramma)

• Shrimp and snails
  Avoid keeping them with large or aggressive species that may view them as food.

Diet:
They are omnivorous and accept a wide range of foods. A balanced diet includes:

• High-quality micro pellets or crushed flakes

• Frozen brine shrimp and bloodworms
  

• Feed 1-2 times daily

Overview (before natural environment):
The ember tetra is a hardy, colorful, and active nano fish perfect for planted community aquariums. Its peaceful nature, vibrant orange-red body, and shoaling behavior make it an attractive choice for aquarists seeking a lively but manageable species.

Natural Environment:
Ember tetras are native to Central Brazil, particularly the Araguaia River basin. They inhabit slow-moving, heavily vegetated blackwater streams and tributaries, where the water is warm, soft, and tannin-rich with low light penetration.

Breeding:
Breeding ember tetras is possible in captivity but requires a dedicated setup:

• Use a small, dimly lit tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg scattering.

• Condition adults with live foods before spawning.

• They are egg scatterers and do not care for their young; remove adults after spawning.

• Eggs hatch in about 24–36 hours, and fry become free-swimming in 3–4 days.

• Feed fry infusoria or liquid fry food until they are large enough to take baby brine shrimp or microworms.