Hyphessobrycon myrmex “Platinum Red” – Rare Platinum Red Tetra for Planted Aquariums

Hyphessobrycon myrmex “Platinum Red” is a rare, shimmering tetra with intense red tones and platinum highlights, perfect for peaceful planted community aquariums.

🌿 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon myrmex

• Common Name: Platinum Red Tetra

• Origin: South America (Amazon basin tributaries)

• Habitat: Slow-moving forest streams with leaf litter and soft, tannin-rich water

• Temperament: Peaceful, schooling species

Hyphessobrycon myrmex “Platinum Red” is a highly desirable tetra variety known for its glowing red coloration enhanced by a metallic platinum sheen. When kept in proper groups, they display beautiful schooling behavior and striking synchronized swimming patterns.

🎨 Appearance & Coloration

• Slender, torpedo-shaped tetra body

• Deep red to crimson base coloration

• Subtle platinum or silvery sheen along the flanks

• Clear to lightly tinted fins with reddish hues

• Males often show more intense red coloration

Under planted tank lighting, their metallic shimmer becomes especially noticeable, making them an eye-catching midwater display fish.

📏 Size & Lifespan

• Adult Size: 3–4 cm (1.2–1.6 inches)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care

Their manageable size makes them ideal for nano to medium-sized planted aquariums.

💧 Water Conditions

Hyphessobrycon myrmex “Platinum Red” thrives in soft, slightly acidic water:

• Temperature: 23°C – 27°C

• pH: 5.5 – 7.0

• Hardness: 2–8 dGH

• Water Flow: Gentle to moderate

• Filtration: Sponge or gentle canister filtration

• Environment: Planted tanks with driftwood and leaf litter

Stable parameters and clean water are essential to maintain their vibrant red coloration.

🏡 Tank Setup Recommendations

• Minimum Tank Size: 15–20 gallons for a group of 8–10

• Substrate: Fine sand or dark gravel

• Lighting: Moderate; floating plants help diffuse light

• Plants: Cryptocoryne, Anubias, Java fern, stem plants

• Decor: Driftwood, botanicals, almond leaves

Keeping them in groups of at least 6–8 individuals encourages natural schooling behavior and reduces stress.

🐟 Tank Mates Compatibility

Hyphessobrycon myrmex “Platinum Red” is ideal for peaceful community aquariums.

Compatible Tank Mates:

• Small rasboras

• Corydoras species

• Dwarf cichlids (Apistogramma)

• Other peaceful tetras

Avoid:

• Large predatory fish

• Aggressive or fin-nipping species

Their peaceful temperament makes them excellent companions in Amazonian-style biotopes.

🍽 Feeding Habit

• Omnivorous

• Diet Recommendations:

  • High-quality micro pellets or flakes

  • Frozen foods: daphnia, bloodworms, brine shrimp

  • Live foods for enhanced coloration

  • Occasional plant-based supplements

Feed once or twice daily in small portions. A varied diet supports vibrant coloration and strong immune health.

🛠 Care Level

• Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate

• Suitable for beginner aquarists with stable water conditions

• Sensitive to sudden parameter changes

• Regular weekly water changes (20–30%) recommended

🌟 Why Choose Hyphessobrycon myrmex “Platinum Red”?

• Rare platinum sheen combined with deep red coloration

• Peaceful and active schooling behavior

• Ideal for planted and Amazonian community aquariums

• Manageable size for nano and medium tanks

• Stunning visual impact when kept in groups

Hyphessobrycon myrmex “Platinum Red” is a refined and visually striking tetra that adds shimmer and vibrant red tones to planted aquariums. Its peaceful nature and active schooling behavior make it a perfect choice for hobbyists seeking a colorful yet easy-to-care-for community fish.