Serpae Tetra

Megalamphodus eques

Serpae Tetra is a peaceful middle swimmer. Keep in a loose group of 12+.

PeacefulMiddle swimmerKeep in a loose group of 12+Beginner

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Quick facts

Adult size: ≤ 1.6" (≤ 4 cm)
Aquarium size: 19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length
Care level: Beginner
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming zone: Middle swimmer
Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
pH: 5–7.5
GH: 1–15 dGH
Diet: Omnivore
Lifespan: up to 7 years
Group behavior: Keep in a loose group of 12+

Care requirements

Care level: Beginner.

Lifespan: up to 7 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

Minimum aquarium size: 19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 20–28 °C, pH 5–7.5, GH 1–15 dGH.

Temperament and compatibility

Serpae Tetra is peaceful and suits calm community fish.

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open swimming space for movement and feeding.

Feeding

Offer varied small dry and live/frozen foods; ensure the entire group feeds.

How to feed aquarium fish — General freshwater community guidance

Before adding this fish

Plan for an aquarium of 19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length.
Make room for its social group.
Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
Keep in a loose group of 12+.
Offer a varied diet suited to this species’ documented feeding habits.

Natural habitat and origin

Origin: Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

Black Heart Tetra Hyphessobrycon copelandi Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 1.6" (≤ 4 cm) 75–82°F (24–28°C) Black Line Tetra Hyphessobrycon scholzei Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 1.6" (≤ 4 cm) 72–82°F (22–28°C) Bleeding Blue Tetra Hyphessobrycon margitae Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate 1.6–2" (4–5 cm) 73–79°F (23–26°C) Blueberry Tetra Hyphessobrycon wadai Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 1.6" (≤ 4 cm) 75–81°F (24–27°C) Black Neon Tetra Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 1.4" (≤ 3.5 cm) 68–82°F (20–28°C) Bleeding Heart Tetra Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma Same genus Same family Similar care level Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.4" (≤ 6.1 cm) 70–82°F (21–28°C)

FAQ

How large does Serpae Tetra get?

Serpae Tetra reaches ≤ 1.6" (≤ 4 cm).

What aquarium size does Serpae Tetra need?

Use an aquarium of at least 19 US gal (72 L) or larger / ≥ 31.5" (≥ 80 cm) minimum length.

Is Serpae Tetra peaceful?

Yes. Serpae Tetra is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.

What temperature is suitable for Serpae Tetra?

Keep it between 20 to 28 °C.

Should Serpae Tetra be kept alone or in a group?

Serpae Tetra: Keep in a loose group of 12+.