Loreto tetra - Hyphessobrycon loretoensis

Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon loretoensis

Common name: Loreto 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: 5.9 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 3 - 15°N (53.57 - 267.86ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°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: Top levels

Overview

The Loreto Tetra (Hyphessobrycon loretoensis) is a small and peaceful freshwater fish native to South America. These fish thrive in well-maintained aquariums with subdued lighting, driftwood, and a fine sand substrate. Their active schooling nature makes them a great addition to community tanks.

Origin and Natural Habitat

The Loreto Tetra is found in the Amazon River Basins of Peru. They inhabit slow-moving blackwater streams and tributaries, where the water is soft and slightly acidic. Their environment is often shaded by overhanging vegetation and filled with decaying organic matter, giving the water a dark, tannin-rich appearance.

Appearance and Size

These tetras are small, reaching an adult size of about 2 - 3 cm (0.79 - 1.18 inches). They have a slender body with a subtle shimmer, making them a visually appealing addition to a planted or natural-style aquarium.

Tank Requirements

Tank Size: A minimum of 40 liters (~10 gallons) is recommended for a small group.
Water Parameters:

pH: 5.9 - 7.0
Water Hardness: 3 - 15°N (53 - 267 ppm)
Temperature: 22 - 25°C (71.6 - 77°F)

Tank Setup: Use subdued lighting to replicate their natural habitat. Provide plenty of driftwood or bogwood and use a sand substrate. While live plants can be added, they are not commonly found in their wild environment.

Temperament and Tank Mates

Loreto Tetras are peaceful schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least 6 individuals. They coexist well with other small, non-aggressive fish, including dwarf cichlids, Corydoras catfish, and other small tetras. Avoid housing them with large or aggressive species that may see them as food.

Feeding and Diet

Loreto Tetras are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet:

High-quality flake or small granules as the staple diet
Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and tubifex
Occasional vegetable-based foods to maintain a balanced diet

Feeding them a diverse diet helps enhance their color and overall health.

Sexing

Females tend to be slightly larger and plumper than males, especially when carrying eggs.

Breeding

Breeding Loreto Tetras can be achieved under the right conditions:

Use a separate breeding tank with subdued lighting.
Add Java moss or spawning mops to provide a safe place for eggs.
Keep a small group with both sexes and condition them with live foods.
After spawning, remove the parents to prevent egg predation.
Eggs should hatch within 24 - 36 hours, and fry can be fed micro worms as their first meal.

Lifespan

With proper care, Loreto Tetras typically live between 2 to 3 years in captivity.

Conclusion

The Loreto Tetra (Hyphessobrycon loretoensis) is a fascinating and peaceful species that adds movement and charm to community aquariums. Their small size, easygoing temperament, and unique natural habitat make them an excellent choice for aquarists looking to replicate an Amazonian blackwater environment.