Mayan Tetra

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Distributed across Central America (southern Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala). Inhabits lagoons, swamps, and slow-moving rivers with muddy or sandy substrates.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Type species of the genus Hyphessobrycon. Highly deep-bodied and laterally compressed. Adults grow up to 4.5 cm.

Social Behavior: Quiet, peaceful, and gregarious species. Should be kept in schools of at least 6 to 8 individuals to ensure safety and group cohesion.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Silvery body with copper highlights. Dorsal and anal fins are prominent. Mature males exhibit longer and more pointed dorsal fins.

Aquarium Setup: An aquarium of at least 80 liters with hardy plants. Provide driftwood branches and dry leaves while maintaining open swimming space.

Diet and Feeding: Opportunistic omnivore. Will eat flakes, small sinking pellets, and frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia.

Water Quality: Highly adaptable. Keep pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and GH between 3 and 15. Prefers cooler water temperatures (20-26°C).

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Great community fish. Combines well with other Central American species like livebearers (platies, swordtails) or peaceful dwarf cichlids.

Aquarium Breeding: Egg-scatterer. Parent fish will eat their own eggs; a separate breeding tank is required, and parents should be removed post-spawning.

Risks and Diseases: Very hardy. The main risk is jumping out of the tank if it is left open.