Characins - Tuesday, October 16, 2007 19:40 - 5 Comments

Serpae Tetra (Hyphessobrycon callistus)

Serpae Tetra Photo © C.B. Agulto

Profile

Origin: Amazon River and Paraguay

Behavior: Generally peaceful, should be kept in schools of six or more. May nip fins of other fish if they are kept in small groups.

Temperature: 72–79 °F (22-26 °C)

pH: 5.5 - 7.0

Size: 1.5″ (4 cm)

Diet: Accepts flakes and most aquaria food.

Breeding: Egg layer. Easy to breed in aquarium. Plant the breeding tank with many fine-leaved plants (Myriophyllum, Cabomba) and floating plants. Adjust the water quality, so it has a pH of 6.5-7.0.

Sex: Females are rounder than males.

Notes

Serpae Tetra Photo © C.B. Agulto

The Serpae Tetra is popular because of its distinct red coloration and its hardiness in the community aquarium. There are many contrasting reports on the behavior of the Serpae Tetra. Some owners argue that Serpae Tetras are fin-nippers, while some owners claim they are absolutely peace in their community tank. The activity of Serpae Tetras may be hard to predict because of the different reports about their behavior.

Conclusion

Care:
Hardiness:
Temperament:
Breeding:
Overall: