Colombian Tetra (3cm) is a peaceful, colorful schooling fish with red and silver hues—ideal for community tanks with soft, slightly acidic water and plants.

The Colombian Tetra (Hyphessobrycon columbianus) is a lively and peaceful freshwater fish known for its shimmering silver body highlighted with subtle red accents on the fins and tail. Measuring around 3cm, this tetra adds vibrant color and dynamic schooling behavior to planted and community aquariums. Native to Colombia’s freshwater streams, it thrives in soft, slightly acidic water with plenty of vegetation and open swimming space.

Its calm temperament and adaptability make it a favorite among both beginner and experienced aquarists looking to enrich their freshwater community tanks.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon columbianus

• Common Name: Colombian Tetra

• Size: 3cm (adult size)

• Lifespan: 4–6 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, schooling

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Origin: Colombia (South America)

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more

🌊 Water Conditions

Colombian Tetras prefer soft, slightly acidic freshwater environments with stable parameters.

• Temperature: 23–28°C (73–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.0

• Hardness: 2–10 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Filtration: Moderate filtration with good oxygenation

• Lighting: Moderate lighting, preferably with plants providing shaded areas

A well-planted tank with driftwood and open swimming areas closely mimics their natural habitat.

🐟 Tank Mates

Thanks to their peaceful nature, Colombian Tetras are ideal for community tanks with other non-aggressive species.

Compatible tank mates:

• Other small tetras (Neon, Glowlight, Ember)

• Rasboras

• Corydoras catfish

• Otocinclus catfish

• Peaceful dwarf gouramis

• Small livebearers and shrimp

Avoid:

• Aggressive or territorial fish

• Larger predatory species

• Fin-nippers

Keeping them in schools of 6 or more ensures natural behavior and reduces stress.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Colombian Tetras are omnivorous and readily accept a variety of foods.

Recommended diet:

• High-quality flakes or micro pellets

• Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia

• Freeze-dried tubifex or krill

• Vegetable flakes or spirulina occasionally

Feed once or twice daily, offering small portions consumed within minutes.

🧼 Care and Maintenance

• Regular water changes (20–30% weekly) to maintain water quality

• Maintain stable water parameters to avoid stress

• Use a secure lid to prevent jumping

• Provide plenty of plants and hiding spots

• Monitor health and behavior for any issues

🌿 Why Choose the Colombian Tetra?

The Colombian Tetra is a vibrant and peaceful schooling fish that brings life and color to planted community aquariums. Its adaptability, ease of care, and striking appearance make it a rewarding choice for freshwater fishkeepers.

Enhance your community tank with the lively and colorful Colombian Tetra—add them to your aquarium today!