Species profile
Loreto Tetra
Hyphessobrycon loretoensis
Peaceful
Easy care
60 L minimum aquarium
2–3 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 10
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A peaceful micro-community species; avoid large or boisterous tankmates that outcompete it for food.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–26 °C
pH
5.5–7.5
GH
1–10 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: 10
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.4
Tiny peaceful shoaling characin. A larger group improves confidence and display and is preferable to the bare six-fish minimum.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
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 loretoensis
Alternative names
Loreto Tetra
Native range
Upper Amazon basin, especially Peru.
Natural habitat
Small forest streams and tributaries with leaf litter, submerged branches and soft to moderately soft water.
Diet & feeding
Tiny zooplankton/invertebrates plus fine prepared foods; use appropriately small flakes, micro-pellets and frozen/live microfoods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature females are fuller-bodied, especially when gravid; males tend to remain slimmer.
Breeding
Egg-scattering characin with no parental care; adults may eat eggs and fry.