Species profile
White-Fin Ornate Tetra
Megalamphodus bentosi
Peaceful
Easy care
70 L minimum aquarium
4–5 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Accepted genus updated to Megalamphodus under the 2024 characid reclassification; Hyphessobrycon bentosi remains an important synonym/search alias.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
5–7.5
GH
1–12 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
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.5
Peaceful shoaling tetra. Males may spar/display without normally causing serious damage when the group has space and cover.
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
4–6 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
70 L
Minimum footprint
75 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Megalamphodus bentosi
Alternative names
Hyphessobrycon bentosi, Bentosi Tetra, Ornate Tetra, White-tip Tetra
Native range
Amazon basin in Brazil and Peru.
Natural habitat
Slow forest tributaries and marginal waters with vegetation, wood and leaf litter; soft acidic conditions are typical.
Diet & feeding
Small invertebrates, zooplankton and plant/detrital matter; accepts varied fine dry, frozen and live foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Adult males tend to be slimmer with more extended dorsal/anal fins; females are fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Egg-scattering characin with no parental care; soft acidic water and fine plants/spawning mops can be used for controlled breeding.