Species profile
Flame Tetra
Hyphessobrycon flammeus
Peaceful
Easy care
60 L minimum aquarium
2.5–4 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Small peaceful Brazilian tetra from shaded slow-flowing streams. Wild populations are threatened, while aquarium stock is widely captive bred.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
5.5–7.5
GH
Not yet documented
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
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 shoaling community fish. Colour and confidence improve in a larger group with planted/shaded areas.
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 flammeus
Alternative names
Flame Tetra, Von Rio Tetra, Rio Tetra, Red Tetra
Native range
Coastal south-eastern Brazil around Rio de Janeiro and adjoining river systems.
Natural habitat
Small shaded streams with dark or clear slow-flowing water, sand and dense vegetation. Use plants, wood/leaf litter and gentle circulation.
Diet & feeding
Feeds on small insects, worms and plant matter; offer fine prepared foods and small frozen/live foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are slimmer and more intensely red with dark-edged anal/pelvic fins; females are fuller-bodied and usually less intensely coloured.
Breeding
Egg-scattering non-guarder. Spawns among fine vegetation; adults should be removed from a breeding setup because eggs/fry may be eaten.