Hyphessobrycon amandae – Ember Tetra

Hyphessobrycon amandae, commonly known as the Ember Tetra, is a beautiful and peaceful nano fish native to the Araguaia River basin in Brazil. This species is highly popular among aquarists due to its bright orange to amber coloration, small size, and gentle temperament.

The Ember Tetra gets its name from its glowing ember-like orange body, which becomes especially vibrant under proper lighting and in planted aquariums. When kept in groups, these fish display graceful schooling behavior and create a warm, glowing effect as they swim through plants and open water.

Because of their small size and calm nature, Hyphessobrycon amandae is ideal for nano aquariums, aquascapes, and peaceful community tanks. They pair beautifully with shrimp, small rasboras, and other nano fish, making them a favorite for aquascapers who want colorful but non-aggressive fish.

Key Features

• Popular Ember Tetra nano fish

• Bright orange / ember-colored body

• Peaceful and schooling species

• Perfect for planted aquariums and nano tanks

• Safe with shrimp and other small fish

• Adds vibrant color to aquascapes

Size

• Adult size: 2 – 2.5 cm

• Juveniles: typically 1 – 1.5 cm when sold

• One of the smallest tetra species

Temperament

Hyphessobrycon amandae is extremely peaceful and social.

• Best kept in groups of 8–10 or more

• Gentle and non-aggressive

• Active mid-water swimmer

• Safe with shrimp and nano tank mates

Keeping them in larger groups improves confidence and schooling behavior.

Water Conditions

Stable water parameters help maintain their bright coloration.

• Temperature: 23 – 28°C (73 – 82°F)

• pH: 5.5 – 7.0

• GH: 2 – 10 dGH

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: < 20 ppm

Perform 20–30% weekly water changes to maintain water quality.

Tank Setup

Ember Tetras thrive in planted aquariums with gentle flow and natural décor.

Recommended setup includes:

• Dense live plants such as moss, stem plants, and carpeting plants

• Open swimming space in the center

• Driftwood and natural décor

• Soft substrate

• Moderate lighting to enhance coloration

Minimum tank size: 30 liters (~8 gallons) for a small school.

Feeding Habits

Hyphessobrycon amandae are omnivores and accept a wide range of foods.

Diet can include:

• Micro pellets or crushed flakes

• Baby brine shrimp

• Daphnia and micro worms

• Frozen foods in small portions

Feed 1–2 times daily in small amounts suitable for their tiny mouths.

Tank Mates

Ember Tetras are excellent for peaceful community tanks.

Suitable tank mates:

• Chili rasboras

• Other nano tetras

• Corydoras pygmaeus

• Otocinclus

• Shrimp and snails

Tank mates to avoid:

• Large fish that may eat them

• Aggressive or fin-nipping species

Care and Maintenance

To keep Ember Tetras healthy:

• Keep them in groups of at least 8–10

• Maintain stable water parameters

• Provide planted areas for security

• Perform regular water changes

• Feed small high-quality foods

With proper care, Hyphessobrycon amandae can live 4–5 years in captivity.

Why Choose Hyphessobrycon amandae?

• Tiny and beautiful nano tetra species

• Vibrant orange ember coloration

• Perfect for planted nano aquariums

• Peaceful and shrimp-safe

• Ideal schooling fish for aquascapes

Hyphessobrycon amandae is a fantastic choice for aquarists looking to add bright color, peaceful behavior, and natural schooling movement to planted aquariums and nano tanks. Their glowing orange bodies create a stunning visual effect among lush green plants. 🐟🌿