Loreto Tetra (Hyphessobrycon loretoensis)

Loreto Tetras are a very peaceful and active Tetra species, making them an ideal resident of the well-researched community aquarium. However, these Tetras are not as hardy as most other Tetras and can be somewhat sensitive to fluctuating waters; therefore, they are probably not ideal for the beginner aquarist. They are also considered rare, so they are not seen very often in the aquarium hobby.

Loreto Tetras are best kept in groups of at least eight individuals alongside other schooling fish to provide security, and you will be rewarded with a more natural-looking display. Of course, you may find your fish squabbling amongst themselves in a group on the odd occasion. Still, as long as your aquarium is spacious and there are plenty of visual barriers or hiding places to retreat into if necessary, no actual harm should follow.

Tankmates should be of similar size and peaceful temperament and include other small Tetras, Hatchetfish, Pencilfish, non-predatory, small to medium-sized Cichlids, Corydoras Catfish, and small Loricariids.

Loreto Tetras has a slender, silvery-opaque body with a continuous, solid dark lateral stripe with a shimmering gold line above that. Their caudal fin is almost entirely a reddish-orange colour with white tips, and their dorsal and anal fin is translucent with whitish tips. The rest of their fins are transparent.

Photos

Natural Habitat

Feeding

In the home aquarium, the Loreto Tetra will readily accept most good quality dried foods such as granules, flakes and sinking pellets. These modern food products have been developed to provide all adequate nutrition to maintain your fish's health and dietary requirements.

Providing additional foodstuffs such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried meals such as bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week will provide additional benefits to your fish's health and well-being but is not a must for this fish.

It should be noted that bloodworms should only be given as an occasional treat and should not be used as the staple diet as they are difficult for fish to digest and can potentially cause blockages.

This fish is an omnivore in the wild, meaning it will consume some vegetable matter. Although most modern fish foods take this into account and include them in their products, you can still supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. Ensure you do not overfeed your fish and remove any leftovers the following day.