Family: Characidae
Chocolate Neon Tetra — a Characidae from South America. Reaches 2.2–3.2 cm; keep at 22–26 °C.
Hyphessobrycon vilmae, 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 2.2–3.2 cm and adapts well to a properly set-up aquarium in the 22–26 °C range. Other Hyphessobrycon species in our database include Hyphessobrycon amandae, Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi, Hyphessobrycon eques.
Intermediate difficulty. Mostly peaceful; larger species predatory; strong shoalers; keep in groups of 8 or more.
Hold 22–26 °C and keep it stable — 22–26 °C recorded range. Heater for stable tropical warmth.
Adults reach 2.2–3.2 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 25 litres.
Omnivore with carnivorous tilt. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.
Mostly peaceful; larger species predatory. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Its home waters are South America — blackwater streams and flooded forest, with still to gentle current.
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.