RED BELLY TETRA

The Red Belly Tetra (Hyphessobrycon eques), also known as the Serpae Tetra, is a striking freshwater fish known for its vibrant red-orange belly and active schooling behavior. These tetras are relatively easy to care for, making them popular among beginner and experienced aquarium keepers alike. Here’s a detailed guide to caring for Red Belly Tetras:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a small school of Red Belly Tetras (6 or more). Larger tanks (30+ gallons) are preferable as these fish are active swimmers and do best in groups.
• Aquascape: A well-planted tank with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots is ideal. Use live plants, rocks, and driftwood to provide cover and break up lines of sight, which helps reduce aggression.
• Substrate: Any substrate works, but dark gravel or sand enhances their colors. A natural environment will make them feel more comfortable.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal. Bright lights can stress them out, but a well-planted tank helps create shaded areas where they can retreat.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Maintain a water temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C). Red Belly Tetras prefer stable temperatures, so a heater is recommended.
• pH: These tetras prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Consistent pH levels are important for their health.
• Hardness: They do well in soft to moderately hard water, with a general hardness (GH) of 4-8 dGH.
• Water Quality: Clean water is essential. Perform regular water changes of 20-25% weekly to keep water parameters stable and reduce nitrate levels.

Filtration and Water Flow

• Filtration: Use a good-quality filter that provides effective filtration without creating too much current. A hang-on-back filter or canister filter is suitable for maintaining clean water.
• Water Flow: Red Belly Tetras prefer gentle to moderate water flow. Avoid strong currents, as these can stress them. Use plants or decorations to break up water flow if needed.

Feeding

• Diet: Red Belly Tetras are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet. Offer high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and supplement with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Occasionally include plant-based foods like spirulina flakes.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1-2 times a day, offering only what they can eat in about 2-3 minutes. Avoid overfeeding to maintain water quality.