Ember Tetra

Care requirements

Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.

Lifespan: 3–5 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

Minimum aquarium size: 54 L or larger / ≥ 60 cm (≥ 23.6 in) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 22–28 °C, pH 5–7.5, GH 1–12 dGH, KH 0–8 dKH.

Temperament and compatibility

Ember Tetra is peaceful and suits calm community fish.

Keep in a school of 10+.

Plant safe

Yes

Shrimp safe

Yes

Snail safe

Yes

Community safe

Yes

Beginner friendly

Yes

Aquascape fit

Yes

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the lower to middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding. Keep in a school of 10+.

Feeding

As an omnivore, Ember Tetra should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.

Make sure food reaches the substrate before faster fish take it.

Offer micro-granules, crushed flakes and tiny live or frozen foods such as Artemia nauplii, Cyclops and microworms.

Natural habitat and origin

Origin: Araguaia river basin, Brazil.

Natural habitat: Small warm tributaries and vegetated margins with subdued light, fine plant cover and gentle current.

Breeding notes

Breeding difficulty: Intermediate.

A minimum group of six is too small for the best behaviour. The species remains close to 2 cm standard length and should not be paired with boisterous feeders.

Before adding this fish

• Plan for an aquarium of 54 L or larger / ≥ 60 cm (≥ 23.6 in) minimum length.
• Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
• Keep in a school of 10+.
• Offer a varied diet suitable for an omnivorous bottom-dwelling fish.