Family: Characidae
flame tetra — a Characidae from South America and the Philippines. Reaches 2–2.9 cm; keep at 22–28 °C.
Hyphessobrycon flammeus, a member of the family Characidae, comes from South America and the Philippines, where it inhabits blackwater streams and flooded forest. Mostly peaceful; larger species predatory and omnivore with carnivorous tilt, it grows to 2–2.9 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 22–28 °C range. Other Hyphessobrycon species in our database include Hyphessobrycon amandae, Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi, Hyphessobrycon eques.
A moderate-level species: mostly peaceful; larger species predatory; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.
Hold 22–28 °C and keep it stable — 22–28 °C recorded range. Heater for stable tropical warmth.
Full size is 2–2.9 cm. Minimum tank: 25 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.
Omnivore with carnivorous tilt. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.
Mostly peaceful; larger species predatory; strong shoalers; keep in groups of 8 or more. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Native to South America and the Philippines, where it lives in blackwater streams and flooded forest. Still to gentle current; Moderate.
Jumping is not a known issue; cover the tank anyway during water changes.
Egg-scatterer among fine plants. Subtle; females fuller-bodied.