Species profile
Lemon Tetra
Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis
Peaceful
Easy care
60 L minimum aquarium
3.5–5 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Peaceful deep-bodied Amazonian tetra that colours best in a proper shoal with planted/shaded areas.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
Not yet documented
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
0.7
Peaceful shoaling species suitable for community aquaria. Keep a larger group to reduce skittishness and display natural social behaviour.
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
3–5 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis
Alternative names
Lemon Tetra
Native range
Amazon basin in South America, particularly Brazilian tributary systems.
Natural habitat
Warm freshwater. Use planted margins, shaded areas and open midwater swimming space with gentle to moderate filtration.
Diet & feeding
Omnivore feeding on worms, crustaceans and plant matter. Use fine quality dry foods with small frozen/live invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are generally fuller-bodied; mature males are slimmer and often show stronger dark edging/colour in the anal fin.
Breeding
Egg-scattering non-guarder. Spawns among fine plants; adults may eat eggs and should be separated for deliberate breeding.