Ember Tetra: Vibrant Nano Fish for Your Aquarium

Ember tetras are captivating freshwater fish that bring a splash of color to any aquarium. These tiny characins, native to Brazil, measure just 0.8 to 1.25 inches in length. Their vibrant red-orange hue and slightly translucent bodies make them a standout choice for tropical fish enthusiasts.

As peaceful and hardy aquarium fish, ember tetras are perfect for both novice and experienced fish keepers. Their small size classifies them as nano fish, ideal for compact setups. These social creatures thrive in groups, adding lively movement to community tanks.

Ember tetras adapt well to various water conditions, thriving in temperatures between 72-82°F. They prefer mildly acidic waters but can adjust to pH levels from 5.5 to 7.5. A group of 6-10 ember tetras creates a stunning visual impact in your tank.

These omnivorous red fish enjoy a diverse diet, including nano pellets, crushed flakes, and small live foods like daphnia and baby brine shrimp. Their hardy nature and vibrant appearance make ember tetras a popular choice for aquarists seeking to add a pop of color to their underwater world.

Key Takeaways

• Ember tetras are small, vibrant freshwater fish
• They grow up to 1.25 inches in length
• Best kept in groups of 6-10 for a striking display
• Adaptable to various water conditions
• Omnivorous diet includes both dry and live foods
• Ideal for community tanks due to peaceful nature
• Suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists

Introduction to Ember Tetras

Ember tetras are vibrant South American fish that have captured the hearts of aquarium enthusiasts. These tiny, colorful creatures hail from the lush waters of Brazil. They bring a touch of tropical beauty to home aquariums.

Origin and Natural Habitat

Native to the Araguaia River basin in Brazil, ember tetras thrive in warm, slightly acidic waters. These peaceful community fish have adapted to life among dense vegetation. This influences their behavior in captivity.

Physical Characteristics

Ember tetras are small, reaching a maximum length of about 0.8 inches (2 cm). Their vibrant orange-red coloration makes them stand out in any aquarium setting. Despite their small size, they have a charm that far exceeds their physical dimensions.

Behavior and Personality

As schooling fish, ember tetras thrive in groups. A minimum of 6 individuals is recommended, but larger groups of 9-10 create a more dynamic display. These peaceful community fish occupy the middle to upper regions of the aquarium. They often dart among plants and interact with their tank mates.

Their social nature makes them ideal for community tanks. Ember tetras are known for their gentle demeanor. They can coexist harmoniously with other non-aggressive species. Their schooling behavior not only enhances their well-being but also creates a mesmerizing spectacle in your aquarium.

“Ember tetras are like little flames dancing through the aquarium, bringing life and color to any tank setup.”

Setting Up the Perfect Ember Tetra Aquarium

Setting up the right aquarium for ember tetras is key to their health and happiness. These colorful fish do best in environments that remind them of their natural home.

Tank Size and Requirements

Ember tetras are small, growing up to 0.8 inches. A 10-gallon tank is good for a small group of 5 to 8 fish. For a bigger group of 20-25, choose a 20-gallon tank. Planted tanks with dark substrates make their colors pop.

Water Parameters and Conditions

Keep the water temperature between 73°F and 84°F for their health. They like soft to moderately hard water with a pH of 5.0 to 7.0. The ideal carbonate hardness (kH) is 4.0 to 8.0, with a general hardness (dGH) of 5 to 17.

Ideal Tank Mates

Ember tetras do well with peaceful, small fish. Good tank mates include:

• Rasboras
• Other small tetras
• Pygmy corydoras
• Red cherry shrimp
• Hatchet fish

Avoid aggressive or carnivorous fish like angelfish and pufferfish. They can harm your ember tetras.

Ember Tetra Care and Maintenance

Ember tetras need special care to thrive. They do well in clean, well-set-up tanks. A 10-gallon tank is good for a small group, but 20-25 gallons are better for more.

They like water between 73°F and 84°F. pH levels should be 5-7, and water hardness 5-17 dGH. Regular water changes are key to keeping these conditions right.

These small fish can grow up to 0.8 inches. They love being in groups of 6-10. This makes them happy and reduces stress.

• Feed 2-4 times daily
• Offer varied diet: flakes, nano pellets, baby brine shrimp
• Provide hiding spots with plants and driftwood
• Perform regular aquarium maintenance

Ember tetras eat a mix of plants and small animals. A varied diet keeps them healthy and colorful. They can live 2-4 years with the right care.

For a healthy tank, choose the right tank mates. Cory catfish, rasboras, and cherry shrimp are good choices. They help keep the tank balanced.

Breeding Ember Tetras in Captivity

Fish breeding fans often enjoy working with ember tetras. These colorful nano fish come from the Araguaia River basin in Brazil. They can thrive in captivity with the right setup and care.

Creating a Breeding Environment

For successful breeding, create a 10-gallon tank. Fill it with dense plants like Java Moss and Hornwort. Keep the water between 73°F to 84°F and the pH around 6.5.

Add a sponge filter and dim lighting. This setup mimics their natural habitat.

Spawning Process

Ember tetras scatter eggs on plants. The female lays eggs, and the male fertilizes them. Breeding ember tetras needs a tank with hiding spots for eggs and fry.

Caring for Fry

After spawning, remove the adults to protect the eggs. Tetra fry are tiny and need special care:

• Feed infusoria or powdered fry food initially
• Gradually introduce baby brine shrimp as they grow
• Maintain stable water conditions with regular small changes
• Separate larger fry to prevent food competition

With the right care, these flame-colored beauties can thrive. They add color to your aquarium. Remember, patience is crucial in fish breeding, especially with delicate species like ember tetras.

Conclusion

Ember Tetras are a captivating choice for nano fish enthusiasts and tropical aquarium hobbyists alike. These vibrant little swimmers, growing to just 0.8 inches, bring a splash of color and life to any community tank. With their peaceful nature and striking appearance, they’re an ideal addition for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Setting up the perfect home for Ember Tetras is key to their well-being. A minimum 10-gallon tank is recommended, with water temperatures between 73°F to 82°F and a slightly acidic pH of 5.5 to 7.0. Regular 20-25% weekly water changes help maintain optimal conditions. These social creatures thrive in schools of at least six, but larger groups create a more dynamic display.

When it comes to tank mates, Ember Tetras play well with other peaceful species. They’re compatible with betta fish, making them an excellent choice for community setups. Their non-aggressive behavior also makes them great dither fish, helping to reduce stress in their aquatic companions.

With proper care, including a balanced diet and stable environment, Ember Tetras can live up to 6 years, with some reports of up to 10 years in captivity. Their hardiness, combined with their striking appearance, makes them a rewarding choice for any aquarium hobbyist looking to add a touch of brilliance to their tropical aquarium.