Serpae Tetra (Hyphessobrycon eques) - Live Fish

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM:

The Serpae Tetra (Hyphessobrycon eques) is a popular species of freshwater fish, known for its striking red and black coloration. It is a small, active, and relatively hardy fish that makes a great addition to community aquariums. Serpae Tetras are best known for their vibrant red bodies and contrasting black markings, making them visually captivating in any tank.

Physical Description:

• Size: Serpae Tetras typically grow to 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm) in length, making them a small to medium-sized tetra.
• Coloration: These fish have a bright red body with a black spot near the base of the tail. Their red coloration can vary slightly depending on the individual fish and the conditions of the tank, with some having deeper red tones. Their pectoral fins may also have a slight orange or reddish hue.
• Lifespan: Serpae Tetras can live around 3 to 5 years in captivity when given proper care.

Behavior and Social Needs:

• Temperament: Serpae Tetras are generally peaceful but can be a little fin-nippy at times, especially if they are kept in a group with more passive fish. They are not overly aggressive, but they can occasionally show some territorial behavior.
• Schooling: Like most tetras, Serpae Tetras are schooling fish and do best when kept in groups of at least 6 to 8 individuals. Keeping them in groups reduces stress and helps bring out their natural behaviors and vibrant coloration.
• Activity: Serpae Tetras are active swimmers and tend to occupy the middle to upper regions of the tank. They are constantly on the move but not as hyperactive as some other species.

Habitat and Water Conditions:

• Water Parameters: Serpae Tetras are fairly adaptable to different water conditions, but they thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0–7.5). They prefer temperatures between 74°F to 82°F (23°C to 28°C) and moderate hardness (4–12 dGH).
• Tank Setup: Serpae Tetras do well in well-planted aquariums with plenty of swimming space. They appreciate the presence of plants, driftwood, and rocks to help mimic their natural habitat. Adding some floating plants will provide them with shade, and soft, diffused lighting can help bring out their bright colors.
• Water Quality: Serpae Tetras are quite hardy, but like all fish, they require clean water with low to no levels of ammonia and nitrates. Regular water changes are essential to keep them healthy.

Diet:

• Omnivorous: Serpae Tetras are omnivores and will accept a wide variety of foods. Their diet should consist of a mix of high-quality flake foods, pellets, and frozen or live foods, such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
• Vegetable Matter: They will also eat plant-based foods, such as blanched spinach, algae wafers, and spirulina. A varied diet will help ensure they remain healthy and maintain their bright red coloration.

Breeding:

• Egg Scattering: Serpae Tetras are egg scatterers, and breeding them in captivity can be somewhat challenging. They need a breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water, and it is important to provide fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop for egg deposition.
• Breeding Tank: A separate breeding tank should be set up with gentle filtration. After spawning, it’s important to remove the parents from the tank, as they may eat the eggs. The eggs will hatch in about 24 to 48 hours, and the fry can be fed infusoria or liquid fry food until they are large enough to accept finely crushed flakes or live foods.
• Sexual Dimorphism: The males are typically slightly smaller and have more intense red coloration, while the females tend to be a bit larger and more plump, especially when carrying eggs.

Care Tips:

• Water Quality: Serpae Tetras are relatively hardy, but maintaining stable water quality is essential for their health. Regular water changes will help prevent the buildup of harmful chemicals like ammonia and nitrates.
• Tankmates: Serpae Tetras can be kept with other peaceful species of similar size, such as other tetras, rasboras, Corydoras catfish, and guppies. They may nip the fins of slower, long-finned species, such as bettas or Angelfish, so they are best avoided with these types of fish.
• Lighting: These tetras appreciate moderate lighting, and providing some areas of shade with plants will help them feel more secure and show off their beautiful colors.

Summary:

The Serpae Tetra is a beautiful and vibrant fish, known for its bright red body and striking black spot near the tail. Though generally peaceful, they can be a bit nippy, particularly in smaller groups, so it’s important to keep them in larger schools. They are hardy and adaptable to various water conditions, making them relatively easy to care for in a community tank. Their active nature and eye-catching coloration make them a popular choice for aquarists seeking an attractive and engaging species.