Hyphessobrycon amapaensis is a characid native to the state of Amapá (Brazil), closely related to the famous Tetra amande (H. amandae), but with a more elongated body and a more intense red hue. Very popular in aquascaping tanks and peaceful community aquariums, it really comes into its own when kept in groups in a natural, subdued setting.

Behaviour & maintenance

This tetra is :

• Gregarious: kept in schools of 8 to 12 individuals
• Pacific and lively, compatible with other small, calm fish
• Confident and colourful in groups in a suitable environment

Diet

Omnivorous micro-predator:

• Microgranules, fine flakes, powders for nanofish
• Artemia, cyclops, daphnia, microvers
• Food enriched with natural pigments (spirulina, carotene)

Water quality

• Temperature: 23 - 28°C
• pH: 5.5 - 7.0
• GH: 1 - 8 °dGH
• KH: 0 - 4 °KH
• Conductivity: 50 - 150 µS

They appreciate soft, acidic, slightly amber water with a moderate flow rate. The addition of natural tannins enhances their well-being and colour.

Decor & environment

Ideal for an Amazonian-style tank:

• Fine, floating plants to create shaded areas
• Dark sand, roots and leaves on the ground
• Moderate to subdued lighting to reveal the red dress

Maintenance sheet

Aquabota tip

Combine it with Pygmy Corydoras or Soft Caridina for a natural, peaceful nano-bac biotope. A black or brown background magnificently accentuates their intense red hue.