Scientific Name:
Hyphessobrycon serpae (Steindachner, 1882)
Also known as Hyphessobrycon eques.
Range:
South America: small creeks and streams in the Amazon, Guaporé and Paraguay River basins.
Maximum size:
5cm. (2").
Aquarium:
A heavily planted tank with dimmed lights, soft, slightly acidic to neutral water and good oxygenation is ideal for this lively little Characin. A 24x12x12" (60x30x30cm.) tank is enough to house a small shoal of 5-6 fish, for a larger group a more sizable tank is required.
Temperature:
pH:
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Diet:
This fish is omnivorous and will accept small live, frozen and dry foods.
Temperament:
A very active fish that mainly inhabits the middle and upper layers of the tank, and should be kept in a shoal of at least 5-6 fish. Solitary Serpae Tetra's tend to become either very shy or neurotic, which can result in attacks on and harrasment of smaller fish. Older specimen are also known to become more intolerant as well.
The Serpae Tetra establishes a pecking order within the group, which can lead to occasional fights. It is also territorial in nature, and will claim and defend a small patch against its own kind and similar-looking fish. Against other fish in the aquarium it usually is peaceful, although it is known to occasionally harass or even nip small weakened or injured tank mates. And like most other high-bodied Tetra-species, the Serpae Tetra has the reputation of being a fin-nipper, because of which it is not recommended to keep it with long-finned fish such as Gourami's, Discus or Angel Fish.
