More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 80 litres / 21.13 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 6.5cm / 2.56inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 10.03dgH / 179ppm |
| pH | 5.0-7.5 |
General Description:
The Colombian Tetra, scientifically known as Hyphessobrycon Columbianus, is a peaceful species that thrives in community aquariums. Also traded under names like 'blue flame' and 'Colombian red fin' tetra, it was initially misidentified as H. ecuadorensis before its official description. This tetra species displays a striking silver body color with iridescent blue hues and bright blood-red caudal and anal fins, with little to no sexual dichromatism in its color pattern.
Aquarium Setup:The Colombian Tetra, requiring a minimum tank size of 80 liters, appreciates a well-structured tank, ideally with plants and moderate water movement. It tends to exhibit better coloration in such setups. The water parameters should be maintained within a temperature range of 20-28°C, a pH level between 5.0-7.5, and a hardness of 18-179ppm (see table for more details).
Behaviour:Known for its peaceful demeanor, the Colombian Tetra is an excellent addition to community aquariums. It is recommended to house them with similarly-sized characids, small catfish species, and non-predatory medium cichlids. Keeping them in mixed-sex groups of 8-10 individuals, along with other schooling fish, enhances their security and provides a more natural aquarium environment.
Feeding and Diet:As for feeding, the Colombian Tetra is an omnivorous species that primarily feeds on worms, insects, zooplankton, and plant material. In aquariums, they readily accept small live and frozen foods like bloodworms, Daphnia, and Artemia, supplemented with high-quality dried flakes and granules containing plant or algal content.
Reproduction & Dimorphism:These tetras are egg-scattering free spawners, showing no parental care. To maximize breeding success, a separate breeding tank with dim lighting and suitable substrate for egg protection is recommended. Sexually mature males are distinguished by their intense coloration, slender bodies, smaller size, and longer dorsal fins compared to females.
Habitat and Distribution:The Colombian Tetra is native to the Río Acandí in the Chocó Department of northern Colombia, near the Panama border. This species is primarily found in rivers and streams within its limited distribution range.