Family: Characidae
Hyphessobrycon melanostichos — a Characidae from South America. Reaches 2.8–4.1 cm; keep at 23–28 °C.
A Characidae species native to South America: Hyphessobrycon melanostichos lives bottom-dwelling over blackwater streams and flooded forest. Mostly peaceful; larger species predatory. Adults reach 2.8–4.1 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Hyphessobrycon species we profile, alongside Hyphessobrycon amandae, Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi, Hyphessobrycon eques.
A moderate-level species: mostly peaceful; larger species predatory; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.
Hold 23–28 °C and keep it stable — 23–28.0 °C typical for the genus. Heater for stable tropical warmth.
Expect 2.8–4.1 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 25 L tank or larger gives it room.
Omnivore with carnivorous tilt. It forages naturally over dark sand and leaf litter, so let some food reach the bottom.
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, where it lives in blackwater streams and flooded forest. Still to gentle current; Moderate.
Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.
In the aquarium: egg-scatterer among fine plants. Subtle; females fuller-bodied.