Our Guide To Keeping Ornate Tetra Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon bentosi
   • Common name: Ornate Tetra
   • Family: Characidae
   • Origin: South America, specifically found in the Paraguay and Guaporé River basins in Brazil
   • Adult length: 4 cm
   • Lifespan: 3 to 5 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Ornate Tetras thrive in a well-planted tank with subdued lighting and open swimming areas.
   • They prefer soft, acidic water conditions similar to their natural habitat. Aim for a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5 and a temperature between 23 to 27°C (73 to 81°F).
   • Provide hiding spots among plants and driftwood, as well as open areas for swimming.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Maintain good water quality with regular water changes and filtration.
   • They are sensitive to water parameters, so monitor ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels closely.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Use a gentle filtration system to mimic the slow-moving waters of their natural habitat.

5. Diet:

   • Ornate Tetras are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods including high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
   • Offer a varied diet to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

6. Tank mates:

   • They are peaceful schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals.
   • Compatible tank mates include other small, peaceful fish such as tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, and small catfish species.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Ornate Tetras are active swimmers and display schooling behavior, so they feel more secure and exhibit their best colors when kept in a group.
   • They are peaceful and can coexist with a variety of community fish species.