Serpae Tetra (1”)

Scientific Name

Hyphessobrycon eques

Maximum Size and Lifespan

• Size: Typically grows to about 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm) in length.

• Lifespan: Around 5–7 years with proper care.

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes, and Care

• Tank Size: A minimum of 5-10 gallons (75 liters) is recommended, 20+ Gallons is preferred for a large group/community setup

• Water Changes: Perform 25–30% weekly water changes to maintain stable water quality.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)

  • pH: 5.0–7.8 (slightly acidic to neutral preferred)
    

• Care: Serpae tetras are hardy but need a well-filtered tank with stable parameters. Dense planting and open swimming areas are ideal.

Tankmates

• Best kept in schools of at least 6–8 individuals to minimize aggression.

• Good tankmates include:

  • Rummynose Tetra, Cardinal Tetras, Bleeding Heart Tetra, Corydoras catfish, Small peaceful barbs (like cherry barbs)

  • Dwarf cichlids (e.g., apistogramma, rams)

• Avoid keeping them with slow-moving or long-finned species (e.g., angelfish, guppies, bettas), as serpae tetras have a reputation for fin-nipping.

Diet

• Omnivorous and will thrive on a varied diet:

  • High-quality flake or micro-pellets

  • Frozen or live foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia)

  • Occasional vegetable matter or spirulina-based foods

• Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.

Overview

The Serpae Tetra is a colorful, active schooling fish recognized for its reddish-orange body with a black dorsal spot. They are relatively hardy, making them a popular choice for community aquariums, though they do best in large groups to reduce fin-nipping. Their lively behavior and bright colors make them stand out in planted aquariums.

Natural Environment

• Native to South America, particularly slow-moving rivers, streams, and floodplains of the Amazon and Paraguay River basins.

• They inhabit warm, soft, slightly acidic waters with dense vegetation and shaded areas.

Breeding

• Type: Egg scatterer

• Setup: Use a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Slightly acidic, soft water (pH 6.0–6.5) encourages spawning.

• Process: The pair will scatter eggs randomly; adults should be removed immediately after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.

• Eggs Hatch: In about 24–36 hours.

• Fry Care: Feed newly hatched fry with infusoria or liquid fry food, followed by baby brine shrimp or microworms once they grow.