Hyphessobrycon Flammeus

Datasheet

General Description

The Flame Tetra (Hyphessobrycon Flammeus) is a species of tetra belonging to the Characidae family. It is a small fish, reaching up to 2.5cm in size, popular in the aquarium trade. Known for its bright reddish color pattern, the Flame Tetra is also traded under various names like 'red,' 'fire,' and 'Von Rio' tetra. Selectively-bred ornamental forms such as 'orange,' 'golden,' 'diamond,' and 'albino' strains have been developed.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Flame Tetras, it is recommended to provide a well-furnished environment with live plants, a dark substrate, and dim lighting. The tank should ideally have a capacity of at least 60 litres and be decorated with wood roots, branches, and dried leaf litter to simulate a natural habitat. Weekly water changes are crucial to maintain spotless water conditions as the species is sensitive to organic pollutants. See table for specific water parameters.

Behaviour

Flame Tetras are very peaceful fish, making them suitable for community aquariums. To witness their interesting behaviors and vibrant coloration, it is advised to keep them in mixed-sex groups of 8-10 individuals. Males may compete for female attention within dominance hierarchies, adding dynamism to their interactions. They cohabit well with similarly-sized fish like characids, gasteropelecids, and small-to-medium-sized cichlids.

Feeding and Diet

As omnivores, Flame Tetras feed on small invertebrates, algae, detritus, and more in their natural habitat. In aquariums, a varied diet including live and frozen foods like bloodworms, Daphnia, and mosquito larvae should be provided alongside dried foods for optimal health and coloration.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Flame Tetras are egg-scattering free spawners, showing no parental care. For controlled breeding, a separate breeding tank with subdued lighting and appropriate substrate for egg collection is recommended. Adult males are typically smaller, more colorful, and possess bony hooks in the anal and pelvic fins. Female anal fins are straighter compared to the slightly curved fins of males.

Habitat and Distribution

Natively found in the Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo states in Brazil, the Flame Tetra prefers small, shallow, vegetated tributary streams with clear to brownish water and sandy substrates. Due to anthropogenic activities like dam construction and pollution, the species faces habitat loss and is now uncommon or extinct across much of its natural range. Populations in the wild are fragmented, and the species is considered threatened in Brazil since 2004.