Ember Tetra

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingEasy tank upkeep

  No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment2–4 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Skin conditions

The ember tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae) is a tiny characin from the Araguaia River basin in central Brazil, living among leaf litter and slow, tannin-stained water. At barely 2 cm it is one of the smallest tetras, and it lives about 2–4 years. Its glowing orange colour gives it its ember name. Embers suit a densely planted nano tank of 40 litres or more, kept at 23–29°C with a pH of 5.5–7.0. Being so small they should be kept in shoals of ten or more for confidence, with fine-leaved plants, driftwood and subdued lighting to mimic their shaded home. Gentle filtration protects these delicate swimmers. They are micro-predators that need very small foods — crushed flake, micro-pellets, and live or frozen baby brine shrimp, cyclops and daphnia. Exceptionally peaceful, they are ideal companions for shrimp, small rasboras and other nano species. Their main risks are ich and fin rot triggered by poor or fluctuating water; a stable, mature, well-planted tank keeps them glowing and active.

• How active is a Ember Tetra?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Ember Tetra need?

  Easy tank upkeep. No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• What tank size does a Ember Tetra need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Ember Tetra a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Ember Tetra live?

  2–4 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Ember Tetra?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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