Firefin tetra - Hyphessobrycon igneus
Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon igneus
Common name: Firefin tetra
Family: Characidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 3 - 5 cm (1.18 - 1.97 inch)
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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.7 - 7.4
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 3 - 15°N (53.57 - 267.86ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 21 - 24 °C (69.8 - 75.2°F)
The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning
Where the species comes from: South America
Temperament to its own species: peaceful
Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful
Usual place in the tank: Top levels
Food and feeding
Firefin tetras will accept all foods offered, they should be given a quality flake that is supplemented with small live or frozen foods in the form of daphnia or micro worms.
Origin
South America, Firefin tetras are found in the Rio Parana, Argentina.
Sexing
Females have a stockier body shape and are less colourful than the males.
Breeding
As of yet there are no reported cases of these breeding in the aquarium but in the wild they will scatter their eggs around the foliage.
Lifespan
The expected life span for Hyphessobrycon igneus is 5 years.
Short description
Hyphessobrycon igneus are a peaceful species that should not be kept with boisterous tank mates. They prefer to be kept in small groups of at least 6 specimens and they make excellent dither fish for non-aggressive cichlids. Use subdued lighting in the tank, plants should be added for the best effect. They prefer water that has tannins so add some pieces of bogwood to stain the water.