Ember tetra - Hyphessobrycon amandae

Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon amandae

Common name: Ember tetra

Family: Characidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 2 - 3 cm (0.79 - 1.18 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.3

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 17°N (89.29 - 303.57ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 29 °C (73.4 - 84.2°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Origin

The Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) originates from South America, specifically the Araguaia River Basins. These waters are typically warm and contain dense vegetation, which provides natural shelter and feeding grounds for the fish. In the aquarium, replicating their native habitat with similar water conditions and plant cover is essential for their well-being.

Tank Requirements

Ember Tetras are small and delicate, so they require a well-maintained tank to thrive. A minimum tank size of 40 liters (10.57 US gallons) is recommended for a small group of Ember Tetras. Since they are schooling fish, they should always be kept in groups of at least 6 to 10 individuals. A densely planted tank with fine-leaved plants like Java Moss or Vallisneria is ideal, as it provides ample hiding spaces and mimics their natural environment.

Ember Tetras prefer soft, slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.5-7.3. They thrive in a water hardness of 5-17°N (89.29-303.57 ppm) and temperatures between 23-29°C (73.4-84.2°F). To maintain these conditions, regular water changes and a gentle filtration system are necessary. They are sensitive to fluctuations in water quality, so consistency is key.

Tank Mates

Due to their small size and peaceful nature, Ember Tetras make excellent additions to a peaceful community tank. Suitable tank mates include other small, peaceful species like Neon Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, Corydoras, and Otocinclus catfish. Avoid keeping them with larger or aggressive fish, as they may feel threatened or become stressed.

When setting up a community tank, ensure that the other fish are not overly aggressive eaters, as Ember Tetras can be outcompeted for food due to their small size. Providing plenty of plants and hiding spaces will also help them feel secure in a mixed-species environment.

Feeding

Ember Tetras are greedy eaters and prefer to consume food as it begins to sink. To ensure that all tank mates receive their share of food, it is important to monitor feeding times. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flakes or micro pellets as their staple. Supplement their diet with occasional treats of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia to promote vibrant coloration and overall health.

Feed them small amounts twice daily, making sure they can consume all the food within a couple of minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues. Providing a varied diet will keep them healthy and display their best colors.

Sexing

Sexing Ember Tetras can be challenging. Generally, males will display a more vivid copper coloration, while females tend to have a lighter hue. Females may also appear slightly rounder, especially when they are ready to spawn.

Breeding

Breeding Ember Tetras can be somewhat challenging, as they require specific water conditions to spawn successfully. A separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water is ideal. Use fine-leaved plants or spawning mops as egg-laying sites. Conditioning the parents with a diet rich in live foods, such as brine shrimp and daphnia, for about three weeks before breeding will encourage spawning.

The spawning process usually occurs in the morning. The female will scatter her eggs around the plants, and fertilization occurs in the water. After spawning, it is crucial to remove the parents, as they may eat the eggs. The eggs typically hatch within 24 hours, and the fry will become free-swimming in about 3-4 days. Initially, feed the fry with Infusoria, then switch to newly hatched brine shrimp as they grow.

Lifespan

With proper care, the expected lifespan of Ember Tetras is about 5 years. Maintaining stable water conditions and providing a balanced diet are key factors in maximizing their lifespan.

Short Description

Ember Tetras are small, vibrant fish that bring life and color to any aquarium. Due to their tiny size and peaceful nature, they are best kept in species tanks or with other small, peaceful fish. Their beautiful copper hues and active schooling behavior make them a favorite among aquarists. However, they can be slightly more difficult to keep due to their sensitivity to water quality and the need for a varied diet. With proper care and a well-planted tank, Ember Tetras can thrive and add a stunning visual appeal to your aquarium.