Candy Cane Tetra (Hyphessobrycon bentosi) - Live Fish

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM:

The Candy cane Tetra (Hyphessobrycon bentosi), also known as the Bentosi Tetra, is a small, vibrant freshwater fish that is prized for its colorful appearance, particularly the striking red coloration that resembles a candy cane. It is a popular choice among aquarium hobbyists due to its beauty and peaceful nature.

General Information:

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon bentosi
• Common Names: Candy cane Tetra, Bentosi Tetra
• Size: Grows to about 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm) in length.
• Origin: Native to South America, specifically the river systems of Brazil, including the Rio Orinoco and Rio Negro basins.

Appearance:

• Coloration: The Candy cane Tetra is known for its unique coloration. The body has a translucent, silvery appearance with striking red markings, particularly along the lower half of the body and the tail. The red coloration often resembles the shape of a candy cane, giving the fish its name.
• Tail: The tail is often red, with the color extending up into the body to varying degrees, creating a flame-like or candy cane pattern.
• Eyes: These fish have relatively large, dark eyes that contrast nicely with their colorful body.
• Fins: The dorsal and pectoral fins are typically translucent or pale in color, with hints of red along the edges. The caudal fin (tail fin) is the most prominent red area.

Behavior and Temperament:

• Temperament: The Candy cane Tetra is peaceful and non-aggressive, making it a great choice for community tanks. It tends to be calm and does well with other small, non-aggressive species.
• Activity Level: This species is relatively active and enjoys schooling. It should be kept in groups of at least 6-8 individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior. They often swim in mid-to-upper water layers, exploring the tank and interacting with one another.
• Tankmates: Being peaceful, they can coexist with other small, peaceful species like other tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, and small livebearers. However, avoid keeping them with larger or more aggressive fish that might bully them.

Care and Maintenance:

• Tank Size: A minimum of a 10-gallon tank is suitable for a small group of Candy cane Tetras. Larger tanks (20 gallons or more) are recommended for a more natural and spacious environment.
• Water Conditions:
  • Temperature: 74°F to 82°F (23°C to 28°C).
  • pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water.
• Water Movement: Candy cane Tetras prefer calm waters with gentle filtration. They are found in slow-moving rivers and streams in the wild, so it's essential to replicate these conditions in the aquarium.
• Diet: Omnivorous. Candy cane Tetras will readily accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flake foods, small pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They may also enjoy vegetables like blanched spinach or zucchini.

Breeding:

• Breeding Conditions: Like many other tetras, the Candy cane Tetra is an egg-scattering species. Breeding can be accomplished in a separate breeding tank with dense plant cover where the eggs can be deposited. The males will court the females by displaying their colorful fins, and once eggs are laid, the parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs.
• Fry Care: The eggs will hatch in 1-2 days, and the fry will become free-swimming shortly thereafter. The fry should be fed with infusoria or baby brine shrimp until they are large enough to eat more substantial food.

Lifespan:

• With proper care, the Candy cane Tetra can live up to 3-5 years, although this can vary depending on water conditions, diet, and tank environment.

Popularity:

The Candy cane Tetra is favored in the aquarium trade for its vibrant and unique appearance. Its peaceful nature makes it an excellent addition to a community tank, while its small size and attractive coloration make it a favorite among hobbyists.

Tank Setup:

• Plants: Candy cane Tetras appreciate a tank with live plants. A well-planted aquarium with hiding spots and open swimming areas will make them feel secure. Good plant choices include Java ferns, Anubias, and Amazon sword plants.
• Lighting: They thrive in moderately lit tanks. Strong lighting can stress them out, so a gentle lighting setup is best to bring out their colors and keep them comfortable.
• Decor: Substrate choices can include fine gravel or sand, but ensure the tank is well-filtered and has areas for shelter.

Overall, the Candy cane Tetra is a beautiful, peaceful fish that can add a splash of color to any community aquarium. With proper care and attention, it can live a long and healthy life, making it a rewarding addition to any aquarist's collection.