Red Diamond Flame Tetra (Hyphessobrycon flammeus)
The Red Diamond Flame Tetra, Hyphessobrycon flammeus, is a colourful captive-bred form of the classic Flame Tetra, selected for stronger red tones and a sparkling diamond-like body sheen. This peaceful South American tetra is a long-established aquarium favourite, valued for its compact size, active shoaling behaviour and suitability for planted community aquariums. It is hardy when settled, but looks and behaves best in a mature aquarium with clean water, soft cover and a proper group of its own kind.
Common Names
Red Diamond Flame Tetra, Flame Tetra, Rio Tetra, Red Tetra, Von Rio Tetra
Scientific Name (Latin)
Hyphessobrycon flammeus
Key Features
- Peaceful and social fish, best kept in groups of 6 or more
- Compact size, ideal for community tanks
- Displays vibrant red colouration and a sparkling body sheen
- Thrives in mature aquariums with soft water and stable conditions
- Well-suited for planted tanks with moderate lighting
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Size (adult) | 1.5 to 2.0 inches |
| Temperature | 72–82°F |
| Water pH | 6.0–7.0 |
| Water Hardness | 2–8 dGH |
| Compatibility | Community tanks with non-aggressive species |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
FAQ
What is the ideal group size for Red Diamond Flame Tetras?
Red Diamond Flame Tetras are social fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6 to exhibit natural shoaling behaviour and maintain their vibrant colouration.
Do these fish require special lighting?
They thrive in planted tanks with moderate lighting. Brighter lighting is not required, but it supports plant growth and enhances the visual appeal of the tank.
Can Red Diamond Flame Tetras live with other fish species?
Yes, they are peaceful and suitable for community tanks with non-aggressive species such as dwarf corydoras, neon tetras, and small rasboras.
Donna Grant –
The Red Diamond Flame Tetras are stunning in a planted tank. They form a lively shoal and their red colour really stands out. I kept them with neon tetras and they get along well. The fish are active but not aggressive, and they seem to settle in quickly after a few weeks.
Sam Fraser –
I bought these for my 10-gallon community tank. They’ve been thriving for over three months. The red sheen is impressive and they swim together in a coordinated way. Water parameters are stable, and I’ve noticed they’re more active in a mature setup.
Boris MacDonald –
The fish arrived healthy and looked vibrant. They’ve been in the tank for two months and are still active. I’m a bit concerned about water quality, but I’ve been doing regular water changes. They don’t eat much, but they’re happy and stay in the middle of the tank.
Joshua Nash –
Great addition to my aquarium. The colour is brighter than expected, and they swim in tight groups. I’ve kept them with some dwarf corydoras and they coexist peacefully. The tank looks much more dynamic now.