Ember tetra

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Araguaia river basin (Brazil). Tiny streams and very slow-flowing lowland lakes, loaded with branches, leaf carpets, floating vegetation and amber waters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae). Among the smallest aquarium fish in the world (Nano fish). Classic tetra profile, but almost never exceeds 2 cm (0.8 inches) in length as an adult.

Social Behavior: Gregarious, peaceful and confident if kept in a large group (minimum 10). Unlike other micro-fish, the Amandae is not a tireless swimmer: it floats motionless for a long time in mid-tank, observing the environment.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Varies from a deep pumpkin-orange to a translucent flame red all over the body. Females are pale (sometimes golden-gray) with a distinctly round belly, males are tiny, thin and fiery.

Aquarium Setup: The star of the "NanoCube". Perfect in 30-40 liter (8-10 gallon) tanks. Recreate miniature jungles with mosses (Java Moss), grassy carpets, oak leaves and intricate twigs. Calm water (very weak flow).

Diet and Feeding: Micro-predator. Has an infinitesimal mouth; flake feed must be ground to powder between the fingers. Loves freshly hatched brine shrimp nauplii and frozen cyclops.

Water Quality: Tolerates neutral pH but the colors of these tetras literally explode in fiery red only in soft, peaty and moderately acidic waters (pH 6.0). Regular soft water changes are essential.

Compatibility and Tankmates: It is the perfect companion for Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp (too small to hunt the young). Exceptional with Corydoras pygmaeus, Boraras brigittae or small Gouramis.

Aquarium Reproduction: Often happens spontaneously in Dutch (heavily planted) aquariums. They release very few tiny eggs (Egg scatterer). Parents eat the eggs, but dense patches of moss allow some fry to survive.

Risks and Diseases: Victim of its size. Must never be placed in community tanks with Angelfish or fish larger than 6-7 cm (2.5 inches), as it would be perceived exclusively as a snack (live food).