Flame Tetra 3cm

Flame Tetra

The Flame Tetra is a criminally underrated species that is small, active, and a fantastic schooling species. Their peaceful nature makes them a great addition to a community tank or a biotope setup. These are species that look especially stunning in large groups of 20 or more fish because of how tight they can swim together. These fish aren’t seen often in aquarium stores simply because of how bland they look as juveniles but once matured they look great. 

Flame tetras as their name suggests have a beautiful rusty, fire-orange colour. The orange colouration is present mostly from the dorsal fin towards the tale and actually has a powder blue sheen as well which contrasts really well. The front of the body actually has a bright gold colour which is isolated near the belly and face area. Whilst juveniles will look quite silver with minimal orange however once they mature the orange and blue will present themselves much more.

Breeding flame tetras is relatively simple, as they follow a similar pattern to other tetra species. Providing a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop will encourage the female to scatter her eggs. The male will fertilize the eggs, but neither parent will protect the eggs or fry. It is essential to remove the adult fish after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs or young fish.

Tank Recommendations for your Flame Tetra

As flame tetras are small and enjoy being in groups, a minimum tank size of 70 liters is recommended. These fish are active swimmers and will appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of open space for swimming. A soft, sandy substrate with driftwood and rocks for hiding is also ideal. Flame tetras prefer slightly acidic water with a pH of 6.0-7.0 and a temperature between 22-28° C.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Flame tetras are generally peaceful and can be kept with a wide range of similarly sized, non-aggressive fish species.

Usually Compatible

Small tetras, rasboras, guppies, mollies, platies, small barbs, corydoras, and small peaceful catfish.

Sometimes Compatible

Larger tetras, angelfish, and gouramis may sometimes be compatible but could pose a threat due to their size or territorial nature.

Rarely Compatible

Predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, or any fish large enough to eat the Silvertip tetra should be avoided.

Feeding your Flame Tetra

Flame tetras are omnivorous and will accept a wide range of foods. A balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or micro-pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms, will keep them healthy and vibrant.