Ember Tetras (Hyphessobrycon amandae)
Care Requirements
- Water Parameters: Ember Tetras thrive in a pH range of 5.5-7.0. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water.
- Temperature: The ideal temperature range for Ember Tetras is 23-28°C (73-82°F).
- Tank Setup: A densely planted tank with subdued lighting and dark substrate helps to bring out their vibrant orange coloration. They appreciate open swimming areas interspersed with dense vegetation for hiding.
- Water Conditions: Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes and efficient filtration. Ember Tetras are sensitive to poor water conditions.
Feeding Habits
- Diet: Ember Tetras are omnivorous. They thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality flake food, micro-pellets, and small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
- Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice daily. Offer only what they can consume within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues.
Behavior
- Activity: Ember Tetras are active and peaceful schooling fish. They prefer to swim in the middle levels of the tank.
- Social Structure: They should be kept in groups of at least 6-10 individuals to reduce stress and display natural schooling behavior.
- Breeding: Breeding Ember Tetras is possible in a well-maintained aquarium. They require soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants for spawning. The eggs are scattered among the plants and hatch in about 24-36 hours.
Tank Mates
- Compatibility: Ember Tetras are peaceful and do well with other small, non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include other small tetras, rasboras, shrimp, and small catfish.
- Avoid: Avoid keeping them with large or aggressive fish that may harass or eat them.
Additional Tips
- Water Stability: Ember Tetras are sensitive to changes in water conditions. Ensure stable water parameters and gradual changes if needed.
- Schooling: Keeping them in adequate numbers is essential for their well-being and to witness their beautiful schooling behavior.
- Observation: Regularly check for signs of stress or illness, such as loss of color or erratic swimming.
Adding Ember Tetras to your aquarium brings a touch of fiery color and dynamic schooling behavior, enhancing the visual appeal and creating a harmonious community environment.
