EMBER TETRA

Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon amandae

Small red fish swimming among green aquatic plants.

Individual Size

The ember tetra is a tiny fish, maxing out at 0.8 inches (2 cm), but it’s got a bold look with its bright red-orange body that’s a bit see-through and has a shiny coppery finish. These little guys are pretty friendly and won’t freak out when you come near their tank, especially if they’re in a bigger group.

A small goldfish swimming among green aquatic plants.

  • It’s best to keep them in groups of at least six; a 10-gallon tank is the minimum size you should go for. Aim for 20-25 ember tetras in a 20-gallon tank with plants if you want to show them off. They’re easy to care for; just make sure their water is good and feed them well. In a 20-gallon tank with proper filtration, you can comfortably house 15-20 of them.

  • Ember tetras are happiest in slightly acidic water with a pH near 6.6, but they can handle different water hardness (from 5 to 17 dGH). They're social fish that love hanging out with others of their kind, so they don't school tightly but prefer to stick together in loose groups.

  • If you're up for breeding, it can be easier than you think! Females lay eggs, and males fertilize them. Males are usually slimmer, while females are rounder, especially when you look from above. These fish get along well with calm bettas and other peaceful species.

    Best tank buddies for bettas include Nerite snails, Mystery snails, Ghost shrimp, Amano shrimp, Harlequin Rasboras, and Pygmy Corydoras, all of which are chill and get along nicely.

  • Feed them small amounts once or twice a day, giving them just enough food that they can finish it in a few minutes. A good rule of thumb is one inch of fish per gallon of water. 

  • Typically, ember tetras live between 2 to 4 years, and their health relies a lot on how well you care for them and their tank setup. A 60-liter tank filled with nice plants and soft lighting is perfect for them. 

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