Hyphessobrycon flammeus (Flame Tetra)
Photo by Mosasaurus 
Family: Characidae
Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon flammeus
Common name: Flame Tetra
Synonyms: Fire Tetra, Von Rio Tetra
Origin: South America; Coastal rivers in Eastern Brazil, around Rio de Janeiro.
Adult size: 5cm
Lifespan: 5 years
Sex: The anal fin of the male is blood red while in females it is lighter couloured, sometimes yellow. Only females have black tips on the pectoral fins.
Minimum aquarium size: 60cm
Aquarium decor: Plants
Temperature: 22-28°C
Water chemistry: pH 5.8-7.8. Hardness up to 25°dGH
Diet: Omnivore; flake
Swimming level: Middle
Compatibility: Peaceful schooling fish, best kept in groups of six or more.
Comments: Easy to keep but can look rather dull. Feed colour enhancing food to bring out their full colours.
