Overview
- The Colombian Tetra (Hyphessobrycon columbianus) is a robust tetra with a blue-silver body and red fins. It is also sold as the blue-red or Colombian red fin tetra.
- Known only from the Río Acandí area in northern Colombia, near the Panama border.
- Grows to about 2.6 in (6.5 cm) standard length, larger than most tetras.
Feeding
- A foraging omnivore that eats worms, insects and some plant matter in the wild.
- Easy to feed. For the best color, offer small live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, Daphnia and brine shrimp alongside quality flakes.
Habitat
- A tank with a base of at least 36 × 12 in (90 × 30 cm).
- Shows the best color in a planted, well-structured tank.
- Likes some water movement.
- Water: 68–82°F (20–28°C), pH 5.0–7.5, GH 1–10.
Fish Care
- Hardy and easy to keep.
Compatibility
- Generally peaceful. Good with similar-sized tetras, small catfish and medium-sized, non-predatory cichlids.
- [UNVERIFIED] Some keepers report fin nipping, so avoid slow, long-finned fish.
Aquarium Behavior
- Keep a mixed-sex group of at least 8–10.
- Other schooling fish help it feel secure.
Breeding
- An egg scatterer with no parental care.
- Fry may appear in mature tanks.
- For more fry, use a separate dim tank with fine-leaved plants or mesh.