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Inpaichthys parauapiranga, the Flame Tetra, is a vibrant, peaceful fish perfect for community aquariums. Easy to care for, it thrives in planted tanks with soft water.

Detailed Product Description: Inpaichthys Parauapiranga (Flame Tetra)

Overview

Inpaichthys parauapiranga, commonly known as the Flame Tetra, is a small, colorful freshwater fish native to the Rio Araguaia basin in Brazil. It is an excellent addition to community aquariums due to its peaceful nature and stunning red-orange coloration, which intensifies under ideal conditions.

Care Guide & Tank Requirements

Water Conditions

To keep your Flame Tetra healthy, maintaining stable water conditions is crucial:

• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

• pH Level: 5.5–7.0 (prefers slightly acidic water)

• Hardness: 1–10 dGH (soft to moderately hard water)

• Ammonia & Nitrites: 0 ppm (Flame Tetras are sensitive to poor water quality)

• Nitrates: Below 20 ppm (regular water changes help maintain water quality)

A well-maintained planted aquarium with soft, tannin-rich water (from driftwood or Indian almond leaves) mimics their natural habitat and enhances their color.

Tank Size & Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons (for a small school of 6+)

• Best Setup: A planted aquarium with ample swimming space

• Lighting: Moderate to dim (brings out their vibrant colors)

• Substrate: Fine sand or dark gravel (enhances their natural colors)

• Decorations: Driftwood, leaf litter, and live plants like Java Fern, Amazon Sword, and Anubias

Since Flame Tetras are active swimmers, an elongated tank with gentle water flow is ideal.

Tank Mates

Flame Tetras are peaceful schooling fish that do well in community setups. Ideal tank mates include:

✅ Other small, peaceful tetras (Neon Tetras, Ember Tetras)
✅ Rasboras (Harlequin Rasboras, Chili Rasboras)
✅ Dwarf Cichlids (Apistogramma, Bolivian Rams)
✅ Corydoras Catfish
✅ Otocinclus (for algae control)
✅ Shrimp & Snails (if the tank is well-established)

🚫 Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping fish like Tiger Barbs or large cichlids.

Feeding Habits

Flame Tetras are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet:

• High-quality flakes & micro pellets (as staple food)

• Live or frozen foods: Brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms

• Vegetable matter: Spirulina flakes, blanched zucchini, algae wafers

Feeding them small meals 2-3 times a day ensures they get proper nutrition and maintain their vibrant coloration.

Behavior & Social Structure

• Schooling fish: Keep at least 6 or more for them to feel secure.

• Mid to upper-level swimmers: They are always active and bring life to the aquarium.

• Shy when alone: If kept in small numbers, they may hide and lose their vibrant color.

Breeding Flame Tetras

Breeding is possible but requires specific conditions:

• Separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water (pH 5.5–6.5).

• Spawning trigger: Warmer water (around 26–28°C) and live foods.

• Egg scatterers: They lay eggs on fine-leaved plants like Java Moss.

• Remove adults after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.

• Fry food: Infusoria or powdered fry food, then baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Common Health Issues

Flame Tetras are generally hardy, but poor water quality can lead to:

• Ich (White Spot Disease) – Treat with temperature increase (to 30°C) and aquarium salt.

• Fin Rot – Caused by bacterial infections; treat with antibacterial medications.

• Stress-related illnesses – Keep water parameters stable and avoid sudden changes.

Why Choose the Flame Tetra?

✅ Easy to care for – Great for beginners and experienced aquarists.
✅ Vibrant colors – Deep red and orange hues enhance any aquarium.
✅ Peaceful community fish – Safe with a wide range of tank mates.
✅ Active and social – Always swimming and exploring.

Final Thoughts

Inpaichthys parauapiranga (Flame Tetra) is a stunning, low-maintenance fish perfect for a natural, planted aquarium. With the right water conditions, diet, and companions, these fish will thrive and display their full beauty. Add a school of Flame Tetras to your tank for a lively, colorful, and peaceful aquatic experience!