Serpae Tetra     Hyphessobrycon eques

Grows to:  2"

Hobbyist Level:  A hardy fish suitable for beginners.

How Many?  They are a schooling fish that should be be purchased in groups of 4 or more.  Six or more is best.

Housing:  Provide plenty of swimming room as well as some bushy plants for hiding.  They look good with a dark substrate.  They swim in the mid to bottom region of the tank.  Because they are found in calm black-water environments, they enjoy a slower water current.  Minimum tank size is about 10 gallons. (Temperature- 72-80),  (pH 6.0-7.5)

Tank mates:  They are lively and active fish that should be kept with other active fish of similar size. They may nip fins if kept singly, schools of at least 6 fish will help deter fin nipping behavior.

Feeding:  They will accept a variety of foods.  Feed flakes, along with brine shrimp and frozen foods.  Tetras will show their best color after you have owned it for a few months and have given them a good diet.  They are an omnivore.

Natural Habitat:  Paraguay & Brazil.   Fish sold at Elmer's are domestically raised.

Males and Females:  Males may appear brighter in color.  Females will appear more round bodied when plump with eggs.

See also:  Tetras