Family: Characidae
Belgian Flag Tetra — a Characidae from South America. Reaches 2.7–4 cm; keep at 23–28 °C.
Hyphessobrycon heterorhabdus, a member of the family Characidae, comes from South America, where it inhabits blackwater streams and flooded forest. Mostly peaceful; larger species predatory and omnivore with carnivorous tilt, it grows to 2.7–4 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 23–28 °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.
Set the heater to 23–28 °C and avoid swings. pH 5.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.
Full size is 2.7–4 cm. Minimum tank: 25 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.
Omnivore with carnivorous tilt. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.
Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful; larger species predatory — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Native to South America, 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.