The Hyphessobrycon sp. "Muzel Red Cherry" is a recent and as yet scientifically undescribed breeding variant of the South American tetra genus, with an intense, even red body colour that makes it ideal for small planted aquariums. It is a real eye-catcher, even in a dark setting.

Behaviour & maintenance

A gregarious, peaceful and active fish that should be kept in groups of 10 or more for natural behaviour, it is ideally suited to calm community tanks or aquascape-style nano-tanks.

Feeding

Omnivorous, with a preference for foods rich in carotenoids:

• Microgranules and flakes for small fish
• Artemia, cyclops, daphnia (live or frozen)
• Spirulina, natural colouring powders

Water quality

• Temperature: 22 - 28°C
• pH: 6.0 - 7.5
• GH: 3 - 10 °dGH
• KH: 1 - 6 °KH
• Conductivity: 80 - 200 µS

Choose soft, slightly acidic to neutral water that is well filtered and stable. A water conditioner can be used to remove chlorine and heavy metals.

Decor & environment

This cherry-red tetra stands out in an aquarium:

• planted with dense vegetation
• on dark substrate or natural wood
• with subdued lighting or shaded areas (floating plants)

Maintenance sheet

Aquabota tip

Combine this tetra with other calm species such as dwarf corydoras or peaceful caridinas. For maximum contrast, install soft lighting with a dark background or Mopani wood.