Species profile
Rosy Tetra
Megalamphodus rosaceus
Peaceful
Easy care
70 L minimum aquarium
3.4–4.5 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Small peaceful South American tetra now placed in Megalamphodus. Best in a good-sized shoal with shaded planting/wood and stable warm water.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
5.8–7.5
GH
Up to 20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 8
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
0.6
Peaceful social tetra. Males display to one another without requiring a large defended territory; confidence improves markedly in a proper group.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
70 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Megalamphodus rosaceus
Alternative names
Rosy Tetra, Megalamphodus rosaceus, Hyphessobrycon rosaceus
Native range
Essequibo, Corantijn and Suriname River basins in northern South America.
Natural habitat
Warm forest-stream style aquarium with shaded areas, wood/leaf litter and gentle-to-moderate flow. Stable water quality matters more than chasing an exact blackwater number.
Diet & feeding
Small omnivore/invertivore. Feed fine dry foods plus small frozen/live invertebrates for condition and colour.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are generally slimmer, more strongly coloured and may show more extended fins; females are fuller-bodied when mature.
Breeding
Oviparous egg-scatterer with no parental care. Adults may eat eggs/fry, so dedicated breeding uses fine plants or spawning media.