Serpae Tetra (Hyphessobrycon eques) Fish Species Profile
The Serpae Tetra is an active, hardy and brightly coloured fish. They can become slightly aggressive if they are kept among slow-moving species, but generally, they make good tank mates.
Because of how easy the Serpae tetras are to care for and their unique characteristics, they are prevalent in the aquarium hobby.
The serpae Tetra is flat and tall, a deep reddish, olive-brown colour; however, on the sides, the scarlet red is more pronounced.
Behind the gills, you will notice a black comma-shaped dot is visible, and the dorsal fin is black.
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon eques |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Jewel tetra, Callistus tetra |
| Family | Characidae |
| Genus | Hyphessobrycon |
| Origins | South America |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | Yes |
| Best kept as | Groups 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Layer |
| Lifespan | 3 -7 years |
| Maximum Size | up to 4.5 cm |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 72 - 79 ℉ (22.2 - 26.1 ℃) |
| PH | 5.0 - 7.8 |
| GH | 5 - 25 |
Origins of the Serpae Tetra
Serpae tetras originate in the Amazon basin, inhabiting the Guapore and Paraguay River basins in Brazil, Argentina and upper Paraguay.
This species prefers slow-moving, still backwaters such as lakes, ponds, and streams. They often gather around tree roots and thick vegetation where they can find both food and safety.
Diet
The serpae Tetra will consume almost anything you offer them. They will happily eat, flakes pellets and ground grains as well as small live or frozen foods such as insects, bloodworms, and brine shrimp. They will also eat vegetable matter. These species have little mouths so the food must be small enough for them to manage.
Sexing the Serpae Tetra
It is quite easy to differentiate males from females. The female Serpae Tetras have a more rounded body whereas the males are slim, and the males look brighter and more colourful, and the females are duller.
Breeding the Serpae Tetra
When breeding Serpae Tetras, certain tank conditions are required.
The aquarium water should be soft with little acidity and gentle filtration, and the tank should be dimly lit with plenty of dark-leaved plants such as java moss where they can lay their eggs.
Feeding them more live foods will encourage spawning.
Once thriving, it usually takes about a day for the eggs to hatch.
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