Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon amandae)
The Ember Tetra is a tiny, peaceful freshwater shoaling fish loved for its glowing orange to deep ember-red colouration. Its small size, calm temperament and striking colour make it a fantastic choice for mature planted aquariums, nano aquariums and peaceful community setups. When kept in a proper group with subdued lighting, plants and stable water quality, a shoal of Ember Tetras creates a beautiful warm shimmer through the mid-water area.
Common Name:
Ember Tetra. Also commonly referred to as the Fire Tetra, Orange Ember Tetra or Ember Fish.
Scientific Name (Latin):
Hyphessobrycon amandae
Maximum Size:
Around 2 cm in captivity, making it one of the smallest tetra species.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 2 cm (approx.) |
| Temperament | Peaceful, shoaling |
| Water Conditions | Soft to moderately hard, pH 6.0–7.5, 22–26°C |
| Group Size | 6 or more for optimal behaviour |
| Compatibility | Good with other peaceful community fish |
FAQ
What is the ideal group size for Ember Tetras?
Ember Tetras should be kept in a group of at least 6 to display natural shoaling behaviour and enhance their vibrant colouration.
Do Ember Tetras require special lighting?
Subdued lighting works best to highlight their natural orange to ember-red colouration without causing stress or fading.
Can Ember Tetras live with plants?
Yes, they are well-suited for planted aquariums and do not damage vegetation.
Angela Grant –
I added a shoal of Ember Tetras to my 10-gallon planted tank. They’ve been calm and active, adding a warm glow to the water. The colour is vibrant and stays consistent even under normal lighting. Great for a peaceful, low-maintenance setup.
Virginia Short –
These fish are tiny but make a big visual impact. I keep them with neon tetras and dwarf corydoras. They don’t compete for space and stay in the middle of the tank, creating a nice shimmer effect.
Evan Langdon –
The colour is beautiful, especially in the evening light. I have six of them now and they swim together in a tight group. A little shy at first, but they settled quickly.