Green Fire Tetra (Aphyocharax rathbuni)- Live Fish

Green Fire Tetra (Aphyocharax rathbuni)

Fiery red belly with a glowing green shimmer

The Green Fire Tetra is a small, active schooling fish that dazzles with its bright red underside and iridescent green body sheen. Native to South America’s slow-moving rivers and streams, this hardy and lively species brings both movement and a pop of color to community tanks.

🔍 Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Aphyocharax rathbuni

• Common Names: Green Fire Tetra, Rathbun’s Tetra

• Origin: Paraguay, Brazil, Argentina

• Size: 1.5–2" (4–5 cm)

• Temperament: Peaceful, active

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Care Level: Easy

🏡 Ideal Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• pH Range: 6.0–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Tank Setup Tips:

  • Keep in schools of 6 or more for best coloration and behavior

  • Provide plants and open swimming areas

  • Darker substrate will make their colors glow even more

🍽️ Diet

Omnivorous and undemanding:

• Quality flake or micro-pellets

• Frozen or live treats: brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia

• Occasional spirulina-based foods for added nutrition

🐣 Breeding

• Egg scatterers; spawn in fine-leaved plants or spawning mops

• Remove adults after spawning to protect eggs

• Feed fry infusoria or liquid fry food, then baby brine shrimp

🌟 Fun Facts

• Gets its name from its vivid red “fire” belly and subtle green glow

• Very active swimmers that bring constant motion to the midwater zone

• Peaceful and adaptable — great for beginner and experienced aquarists alike

💧 Add a fiery flash of color and lively energy to your aquarium with the Green Fire Tetra!