Flame Tetra Fact Sheet

Known for its beautiful rosy hue and lively schooling behavior, the flame tetra is a perfect freshwater fish for beginning aquarists. They are hardy and undemanding, capable of tolerating surprisingly poor water quality. Whether you are new to the hobby or a seasoned fishkeeper, consider maintaining flame tetras in your own fish tank. Know these important guidelines for flame tetra care, and consult an expert at your local fish store if you have any questions about the species.

Adult Fish Size

Your adult flame tetra will grow to one to one and a half inches in total length.

Minimum Tank Size

As a small, undemanding species, the flame tetra can thrive in smallish tanks. Keep it in a five gallon aquarium or larger.

Strata

Flame tetras inhabit the middle quadrants of the aquarium.

Water pH

A school of flame tetras will thrive at any pH between 6 and 7.5.

Water Parameters

Flame tetras can survive in waters with relatively high nitrate levels; some may tolerate up to 50 ppm. Try to maintain nitrate, nitrite and ammonia levels as low as possible.

Temperature

As a subtropical species, the flame tetra does best in moderately warm waters between 72 and 81 degrees.

Set-Up

Arrange your tank in dark colors to bring out the flame tetra's truest beauty. It should be densely planted and include copious amounts of java moss and java fern.

Social Behavior

The flame tetra is a peaceful, social species. They prefer to live in shoals of five or more individuals. They are not territorial or aggressive.

Feeding

Flame tetras accept almost any kind of food, although it must be small enough to fit inside this small fish's petite mouth. Fine-grade flakes are an acceptable staple. Consider also giving tubifex or bloodworms

Special Notes

The flame tetra is endangered in some regions of its native habitat. All flame tetras in captivity are bred captively for the aquarium industry, and fishkeepers can help to support the species by engaging in captive breeding.